reasons to visit victoria bc

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Reasons You Need to Visit Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, located on Vancouver Island , is the beautiful capital city of British Columbia. It’s a popular destination for British Columbians, Pacific Northwesterners, and other travelers, as it’s an easy ferry ride (or luxurious seaplane ride) from Vancouver and Seattle. Here are the top reasons why you should definitely visit Victoria now. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Perfect weekend getaway from vancouver.

Victoria is a great place to visit for a weekend—or long weekend—escape in British Columbia . The city is quite small, so most of the main attractions lie within walking distance of each other in the city center. If your perfect weekend getaway involves brunching, shopping, enjoying pub meals on a sunny patio, and exploring fascinating museums, then you need to visit Victoria.

Butchart Gardens

The most picturesque downtown area

Victoria’s streets will make you think you’ve been transported to a charming English village. The downtown area features colorful Victorian buildings on Lower Johnson Street, floral hanging baskets everywhere, and some of the most stunning architecture in British Columbia (and maybe even Canada). Architecture aficionados will be spellbound by the Fairmont Empress, Craigdarroch Castle, and the BC Legislature Building . If you enjoy wandering around pretty places, you will love Victoria.

The best fish and chips

If you are a fan of this delicious dish, then prepare to eat the best fish and chips ever in Victoria! Red Fish Blue Fish operates out of a shipping container on a wooden pier in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Its reputation precedes it, so expect to wait for lunch (for example, the wait time in September was 40 minutes). But it’s definitely worthwhile. Menu items include the classic combo—you can pick from three different types of fish too—as well as chowder, sandwiches, tacos, and more. The local business also only uses Ocean Wise sustainable seafood. After eating at Red Fish Blue Fish, you will be comparing every other fish and chips to it.

Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown, which is also the second-oldest one in North America (San Francisco’s is the oldest). It’s a beautiful place to walk through and visit, thanks to the distinct architecture, the red and gold lanterns strung above the street, its gate named The Gate of Harmonious Interest, and the area’s shops and eateries. Chinatown is also where visitors will find Fan Tan Alley, which is one of the narrowest streets in Canada. Today it houses various retailers.

All the pubs

Victoria should be known as British Columbia’s pub capital. In the city center, it feels like there is a different pub on every corner. Some of the most popular options include Irish Times , which was voted North America’s best Irish pub this year and has live music nightly. Bartholomew’s Pub has been a “local favorite” since 1975. The Drake focuses on supplying top-quality West Coast craft beer, while The Churchill has 50 craft beers on tap. Visitors won’t be thirsty when visiting Victoria.

Fisherman’s Wharf

It may not be as well known as its San Franciscan counterpart, but Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a must-visit. The area is a short walk from the city center and is home to many colorful float homes and dining options. Choose your favorite float home while feasting on Mexican, sushi, or ice cream. You can also get the Harbour Ferry back to the Inner Harbour after exploring Fisherman’s Wharf.

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum was founded in 1886, and the “Royal” title was bestowed in 1987. Today it houses the province’s natural and human history museum, as well as British Columbia’s Provincial Archives. The Royal BC Museum has three permanent galleries: modern history, natural history, and First Nations history. It also has an IMAX® with the largest screen in British Columbia. It’s a great place for people, and young kids, to learn more about beautiful British Columbia.

The Inner Harbour

The Inner Harbour is where you will find Victoria’s most impressive buildings. It’s an ideal place to soak up the sun, take photos, and listen to buskers. The Inner Harbour is also an excellent destination to visit at night, as the BC Legislature Building twinkles at twilight. From the Inner Harbour, people can get a seaplane to Vancouver, or the ferry to Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s the heart of Victoria, and you can’t miss it.

Vancouver Island

Yes, Victoria lies on Vancouver Island. There are plenty of things to do and see on the island, including visiting Tofino, which is known for being a storm-watcher’s paradise and Canada’s surfing capital. Along the way to Nanaimo from Victoria, there are small, but nonetheless charming, towns such as Chemainus and Cowichan Bay. Vancouver Island is also home to Cathedral Grove, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, the Wild Pacific Trail , and some of the west coast’s best whale-watching locations.

Hatley Castle

Located just outside of Victoria, Hatley Castle stands on the Royal Roads University Campus. It began as a mansion, before being used as a military college and naval training facility until 1995. Now it is a National Historic Site that’s home to a museum and three beautifully manicured gardens: the Rose, Italian, and Japanese Gardens. Hatley Castle has also been used in many films and TV series , including Deadpool , UnREAL , Arrow , The Killing , and the X-Men movies.

Your taste buds are definitely in for a treat in Victoria. Jam Cafe , which has another location in Vancouver, is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch dishes. Their menu includes signature meals such as The Charlie Bowl, as well as a variety of eggs benedict options, and some delectable French toast dishes. Just like Red Fish Blue Fish, Jam Cafe is notorious for long lines. But if you rise early and get there when it opens, chances are you will be seated immediately, giving you more time to explore Victoria—it’s a win-win situation really! Looking for travel inspiration for your next getaway? Browse our collections of Epic Trips , Mini Trips and Sailing Trips to explore the world with the help of our Local Insiders.

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

23 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

April 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

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Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: April 21, 2024

When it comes to beautiful Canadian cities, Victoria is definitely high on the list. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. A British settlement since 1843 and named after Queen Victoria, the city is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the beautiful parliament buildings and the world-famous Empress Hotel. The city is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, vibrant First Nations communities who have called this place home long before European settlement, and is widely known as “The Garden City” thanks to its mild weather and almost year-round gardens.

Victoria is also ranked as one of the top 20 cities worldwide for its quality of life and is relatively snow-free in the winter months, something rather unusual for a Canadian city. Another benefit of visiting Victoria is the city’s surroundings, which include a stunning Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountains. It’s also conveniently located near both Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington.

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful laid-back city surrounded by outdoor adventure and nature, Victoria should definitely be on your bucket list. In this Victoria BC Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Victoria while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Planning your trip to Victoria last minute?

Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more! Don’t forget to plan ahead when considering the top things to do in Victoria!

🇨🇦 Top Activities and Tours in Victoria:

• Best Whale-Watching Tour : If there’s one activity in Victoria that you shouldn’t miss, it’s a whale-watching tour. This is one of the best places in the world to see Orca Whales!
• Best Walking Food Tour : With more than 1,000 5-star reviews, this is your best chance to explore Victoria’s history and culinary scene on a walking food tour.
• Best Seaplane Flightseeing Tour : If you’re looking to get some incredible views of Victoria and the surrounding area, you’ll want to take a seaplane flightseeing tour.
• Best Comprehensive Tour from Vancouver to Victoria : If you’re in Vancouver and short on time, this 13-hour tour from Vancouver to Victoria will give you an excellent taste of British Columbia’s capital city.

🛌 Top Hotels in Victoria:

• Fairmont Empress (luxury)
• Inn at Laurel Point (mid-range)
• Red Lion Inn & Suites (budget)

🚗 Visiting Victoria independently?   Be sure to book your Victoria rental car ahead of time to ensure availability!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Victoria BC

Victoria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, which creates loads of attractions, activities, and other things to do. Below is a list of some of the best things to do when visiting Victoria.

Get Stunning Views from Malahat Skywalk

The Malahat Skywalk , one of the newest attractions in Victoria, offers a unique and captivating experience that stands out as one of the top things to do in Victoria. Perched on the southern end of Vancouver Island, this awe-inspiring structure provides visitors with a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty—from the deep blue waters of the Saanich Inlet to the distant, snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains. The adventure begins with a scenic walk through a lush Arbutus forest, leading up to an exhilarating ascent of the spiralling, 10-story wooden tower. At the summit, guests can either soak in the breathtaking views or opt for a thrilling descent via the 20-meter spiral slide. The combination of stunning landscapes, innovative design, and adventurous elements makes the Malahat Skywalk a must-visit destination, appealing to nature lovers, photographers, and thrill-seekers alike.

Smell the Roses at the Butchart Gardens

Visited by more than one million people each year, the Butchart Gardens has become an icon of Victoria, as well as a National Historic Site of Canada. This breathtaking 55-acre garden is home to 900 bedding plant varieties, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners! Whether you’re travelling solo, with your family, or on a romantic date with your partner, the Butchart Gardens is a must-do when visiting Victoria. It’s just a stunning place to walk around. However, they also have a Saturday fireworks show, boat tours, evening entertainment, and a lovely gift shop. Roses, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and Japanese maples are just some of the magnificent flora you might see in this world-famous garden.

Prefer a tour? Click here to learn more about a popular tour from Vancouver that includes the Butchart Gardens and downtown Victoria.

Visit the Royal BC Museum

Founded in 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is a great place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. There are three permanent galleries inside, including Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery. The natural history collection alone has more than 750,000 records of specimens that are almost exclusively from the province. The Royal BC Museum is also home to touring exhibitions, such as the Titanic, Egyptian artifacts, and the Vikings. You can also watch educational films and commercial films at the IMAX Victoria theatre. It’s also conveniently located within walking distance from the Empress Hotel and the inner harbour.

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

Not far from Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the lovely floating neighbourhood of Fishermans Wharf. This hidden treasure is a great place to eat food, shop at unique stores, and go on eco-tours. This place was busy with people eating fresh seafood when we visited, but our favourite part was touring the floating homes and just imagining what it would be like to live in a house that moved with the water. I believe we even saw some guesthouses if you want a really cool experience in Victoria.

Travel Idea: Click Here for the Victoria Harbour Smartphone Audio Walking Tour .

Go for a Stroll at Beacon Hill Park

If you’re looking for a beautiful park to stroll around for the afternoon, you’ll be hard-pressed to find one better than Beacon Hill Park , which is conveniently located in downtown Victoria. Simply walk up Belleville Street past the Museum of Natural History and the Imax Theatre to Douglas Street, take a right, and then climb a short hill until you reach the top. Beautiful inner-city nature awaits you. However, do note that the park is a whopping 200 acres in size, so plan your visit accordingly.

Explore the Inner Harbour and Victoria Pier

One of the best things to do in Victoria is to simply stroll along the inner harbour, which is one of the most beautiful harbours in the world. This is where you’ll find many historic streets and buildings, as well as a variety of festivals and shows throughout the summer. It’s also home to an international ferry terminal, float planes, and many ecotourism businesses.

Take a Walking Food Tour

One of the great things about taking a walking tour is that you’ll actually learn about the place you’re visiting. You’ll learn about the street you’re walking on or the neighbourhood you’re walking through, helping to make the city truly come alive for you. However, taking a 3-hour food tour with A Taste of Victoria Food Tours will add the experience of trying a variety of delicious food from local restaurants and bakeries. This was one of our favourite ways of exploring Victoria as we got to learn some history while sampling things like Italian baked goods, perogies, homemade ice cream, balsamic vinegar and olive oils, and some delicious meatballs.

Click Here to Book Your Food Tour!

Visit the Victoria Parliament Buildings

Right next to the Inner Harbour is the impossible-to-miss British Columbia parliament buildings . Overlooking stunning Victoria Harbour, these beautiful historical buildings are as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. Visitors are able to do self-guided tours of the buildings or can go on a regularly scheduled 35-minute guided tour, which occurs seven days a week during the summer months. The Parliamentary Dining Room and Gift Shop are also open to the public year-round.

Go inside Craigdarroch Castle

For a Victorian experience and a real-life example of a “bonanza castle” – massive homes built for wealthy entrepreneurs during the industrial age – you’ll want to visit the Craigdarroch Castle . Built between 1887 and 1890 on a hill offering impressive views of the area, you’ll find four floors of exquisite stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Tour Alert: Click here to visit the castle as part of a private tour from Vancouver .

Go Whale Watching

One of the top things to do in the warmer months is whale watching . Thanks to an abundance of orcas (killer whales), the areas around Victoria and Vancouver Island are some of the best places in the world for these majestic marine animals. While we haven’t gone whale watching directly from Victoria, we have done it a few hours north in Port Renfrew, which was the best whale-watching tour we’ve ever done. We’ve also experienced Vancouver whale watching on the mainland and it was also very good. Highly recommended!

• Orca Spirit Adventures : This is the company we were with just off the coast of Port Renfrew. Despite being the last day of the year for tours in Port Renfrew, we saw dozens of Humpback whales and orcas, making it the wildest whale-watching tour of our lives.

Click here to book a VERY POPULAR half-day whale-watching tour!

Go Small at Miniature World

Honey, I shrunk the kids! Remember that movie? Now you can somewhat experience that at one of Victoria’s top tourist attractions – Miniature World . This little world features more than 85 miniature dioramas and displays, including the world’s smallest operational sawmill, the Great Canadian Railway, one of the world’s largest model railways, and even two of the world’s largest Doll Houses circa 1880 complete with over 50 furnished rooms! Talk about attention to detail!

Abkhazi Garden

This is yet another reason why Victoria is nicknamed “The Garden City”. Complete with an exquisite heritage home, the beautiful Abkhazi garden was created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi. It’s only one acre in size but features dramatic glaciated rocky slopes, magnificent native Garry oaks and gorgeous vistas, Japanese maples and rhododendrons, carpets of naturalized bulbs, and much more. It might be small in size but it’s the overall design that leaves the greatest impression upon visitors.

Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo

First, a miniature world and now a miniature zoo? What’s with Victoria and the little things in life? For those interested in insects and spiders, this is the place to be! this is a great opportunity to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. You’ll find approximately 50 species, including Canada’s largest ant colony, giant walking stick bugs, alien-eyes praying mantids, and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions. Whether you’re with kids or not, bring your camera for an unforgettable experience at the Victoria Bug Zoo !

Stop by the Empress Hotel

The Fairmont has done it again. This hotel is not only one of the top tourist attractions in the city but also one of the most historic buildings as well. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to the days of the British Empire. Admiring the flora crawling up the building from the outside is just stunning. This iconic Canadian Pacific Railway hotel was built between 1904 and 1908 and has become one of the world’s most famous hotels. But even if you don’t want to shell out the dollars to spend the night at the Empress Hotel , you can just visit the hotel or even partake in afternoon tea, which is served in the lobby to more than 800 visitors per day.

Tour Idea: Click here for a Victoria Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour .

Explore Chinatown

It’s quite amazing how many cities around the world are home to Chinatown . But Victoria’s is unique in that it’s the second oldest Chinatown in all of North America, second only to the one in San Francisco. Created by Chinese immigrants more than 150 years ago, Chinatown has become a testament to the resiliency of the culture and traditions brought overseas long ago. From the Gate of Harmonious Interest to the bold colours of lucky red and gold throughout the neighbourhood, Chinatown is simply a place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Victoria. While there, don’t miss meandering down Fan Tan Alley as well, which is one of the narrowest streets in Canada.

Go Kayaking

Regardless if this is your first kayaking adventure or if you consider yourself a pro, Victoria is an awesome place to paddle and is the gateway to world-class paddling destinations around Vancouver Island. It’s a wonderful way to get some exercise while getting unique views of the harbour and the city, while also having the opportunity to spot local marine wildlife. Being surrounded by water, Victoria offers a huge variety of paddle sports experiences from the serenity of a calm lake, or the joy of an urban paddle on the inner harbour, all the way up to the excitement of a quick-moving current. It’s not just kayaking either. Paddle-boarding is also popular, as are canoeing and other water vessels. The best time for kayaking in Victoria is April through October, but thanks to the city’s mild climate, it’s possible to paddle all year long. There are many companies offering rentals and tours .

As you might imagine, with so much water surrounding the city, sailing is another popular activity in Victoria, BC. Whether you want to learn how to sail or just go for a scenic tour around the harbour, this is a great place to do it.

Get Amazing Views from the Malahat Skywalk

If you’re looking to get incredible views of the surrounding islands and sea, check out the Malahat Skywalk, which is only 30 minutes from Victoria. This new incredible lookout attraction rises up to 250m above sea level, offering a sweeping panorama view of Mt. Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and islands in two countries. While you’re up there, walk out onto their sturdy 84 ㎡ Adventure Net and be suspended above the centre of the tower with uninterrupted views of the lush arbutus forest and the spiralling structure beneath your feet. Even better? Choose to take the ramp back down or go even faster on their 20-metre Spiral Slide, all the way to the bottom.

With so much nature surrounding the city, Victoria is an awesome base for stunning hiking opportunities. Whether you hike in the city or outside the city, there is no shortage of trails and natural sites, including waterfalls, mountaintops, historic sites, and coastal treks. Most trails are only 30 minutes outside of downtown but will make you feel like you’ve gone deep into the backcountry, except with more people. Trailheads are well signposted, usually with maps, and trails are very well maintained. Most hiking trails are open year-round and are dog-friendly as long as they are on a leash. Some popular options include Coast Trail in Sooke, Mount Work Hiking Trail, Thetis Lake Hiking Trail, and the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park, just to name a few.

See the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Who doesn’t love butterflies? Well, now you can step into an indoor tropical rainforest filled with thousands of butterflies fluttering about the place. There are over 70 species of these magical creatures to see, as well as koi fish, turtles, poison dart frogs, parrots, flamingos, and many tropical flowers.

Click here to purchase your ticket to the Butterfly Gardens .

Get a View from the lookout

If you’re looking for one of the best views of the city, head on over to the downtown Harbour Centre’s observation deck for panoramic views over Victoria, as well as the neighbouring mountains and ocean. Click here to see ticket prices.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

If you’re looking for a Parks Canada National Historic Site , this 19th-century coastal artillery fort is bound to satisfy. Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th-century buildings while also having the opportunity to camp overnight in group-friendly oTENTik’s. There’s also the adjacent Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site, which is home to Canada’s west coast’s first lighthouse.

Day Trips to the Smaller Islands

While Vancouver Island is quite big , there are actually hundreds of smaller Gulf Islands and inlets in the Georgia Strait around Victoria, BC. These make for excellent day trips. You could rent a boat, arrange a tour, or even take the ferry to popular islands such as Gabriola, Saltspring, and/or Thetis. Once on the little islands, you can simply relax in nature, go biking or hiking, visit local artisans and eateries, or find yourself a nice beach to whisk the day away. Ferry rates are about $10 CAD ($7 USD).

Explore Vancouver Island

While some certainly visit Victoria just for Victoria, we highly recommend taking another week or more and exploring more of Vancouver Island . It’s truly a special place and one of the most beautiful areas in the country. You’ll find gorgeous rainforest treks, mystical coastal beaches, jaw-dropping waterfalls, lovely little island towns, and the best surfing in Canada out by Tofino. There are also whale watching and wildlife tours all over the island, the opportunity to go snorkelling with salmon around Campbell River, and some of the best multi-day hikes in North America. Where will you go?

Tips for Saving Money in Victoria

With a little effort, you can turn Vancouver Island into an affordable travel destination. Most of the outdoor stuff is free so if you stick to that and cook your own food, you can keep your costs pretty low! Here are some of my ways to save money when you travel to Vancouver Island:

Couchsurf: Although Couchsurfing requires quite a bit of upfront work, it can be a great way to meet locals while saving mega dollars on accommodation.

Camping: Vancouver Island is home to a plethora of camping opportunities for those well-equipped. Use the DiscoverCamping.ca website to find potential campsites around the island. Expect to pay around $20 CAD or more per campsite.

Happy Hours: When looking for pubs and restaurants, find out if they have a happy hour. This is a great way to save money on food and drinks, while still enjoying the dining scene of each place.

Go Car-Free: If you’re only planning on visiting one city, such as Victoria or Nanaimo, consider leaving behind your vehicle and taking the ferry as a single person. You’ll save more than $50.

Go Biking: Vancouver Island is one of the top places in the country for mountain biking, so if you have the experience, you can save a lot of money by biking from destination to destination.

Hitchhike: Considering its popularity, there are many opportunities to try hitchhiking. Obviously, you’ll want to check with the local laws beforehand, but this can be a great way to save money. This should only be considered if you have lots of time.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Victoria is home to a plethora of accommodations, ranging from budget hostels to super high-end hotels and everything in between. We’ve listed some good options below but for all the best options, check out our guide to the best hotels in Victoria .

Fairmont Empress: If budget is of no concern, it’s hard to beat the famous Fairmont Empress, which offers a spectacular location and a wide variety of amenities such as a spa, pool, restaurants, and more. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Abigail’s Hotel: With almost all 5-star reviews, this beautiful hotel offers a wide variety of amenities such as free delicious breakfast, free parking, and even a small library to relax in. Guests rave about the comfortable beds as well. Click here to see reviews and availability .

Helm’s Inn: Located just outside of popular Beacon Hill Park. this all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations, free WiFi, a refrigerator, a microwave, and very high reviews. They also have some kitchenettes available and have a coin-operated laundry facility on-site. Click here for reviews and availability .

Marketa’s Bed & Breakfast: This is where we stayed during our 150-day road trip across Canada. The breakfast alone is worth the stay, including home-baked scones or muffins, Montreal-style bagels, French toast, and more. This heritage home showcases Edwardian décor, has four-poster beds, and is very centrally located and within walking distance of many popular sights. Click here for reviews and availability .

Where to Eat in Victoria

There’s no shortage of places to chow down in Victoria.

Spinnakers : This is definitely the coolest place we ate at during our visit to Victoria. Not only is it a fancy pub but it’s also a brewery. From Kale Caeser to Shrimp Flatbread and Wild Pacific Halibut Fettacunni, Spinnakers is a great place for any meal of the day. But what makes it more special, aside from the views and ambience, is that they also brew their own beer. There are lots of options so we ended up having their beer and chocolate pairing flight, which included four house beer tasters and four handcrafted house-made TCHO Chocolate Truffles by Chocolatier Crystal Duck. We can’t wait to go back!

Getting to Victoria BC

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Victoria, here’s some practical advice on how to get there.

Getting to Victoria by Plane

If you’re flying into Victoria, you’ll most likely be flying into Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Although there are other smaller airports around the island, this is the one that gets used by most visitors. It’s located just 25 minutes from downtown, is the 3rd busiest airport in British Columbia and offers easy access to downtown Victoria, including by public bus or taxi. The public bus costs $5 CAD but space for baggage is limited.

Getting to Victoria by Car and Ferry

Victoria is also a great place to visit by car, especially if you plan on exploring more of Vancouver Island. If you’re driving to Victoria, you will need to take a ferry from the mainland to either Victoria or to Nanaimo. Most people would be either driving west from interior BC and Vancouver or potentially south from Washington. The crossing time is approximately 1.5 hours. The BC ferries leave from Vancouver’s Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria). The other option is to take the ferry to Nanaimo, and then drive 2-hours to Victoria. The cost for a car and driver is approximately $75 CAD for a one-way trip. However, it’s much better to get a rental car and have all the freedom you need. Depending on timing, you want to arrive 1-2 hours earlier than the ferry departure as it can be very busy. Upon arrival, you will be in Sidney, BC, which is 32 km (20 miles) north of Victoria, taking approximately 30 minutes by car to reach downtown Victoria. You could also take a ferry to Nanaimo and travel to Victoria from there.

Connecting to the Ferry from YVR: Tsawwassen is the closest ferry terminal to Vancouver Airport for those looking to take the ferry to Victoria, BC. For more information on how to take the bus from Vancouver Airport to the Victoria ferry. You can take public transportation from the airport to the ferry, or if you rent a car, just drive to the ferry terminal.

Seattle to Victoria Ferry: Another really cool feature about Victoria BC is that you can actually take a ferry right from downtown Seattle to downtown Victoria, sailing through some really beautiful coastal scenery. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and starts at around $110 USD.

Getting to Victoria by Bus

Just like driving to Victoria, the only way to get to Vancouver Island is to take the ferry. There is no bus that takes you all the way to Victoria from Vancouver. However, you can take a bus to the ferry, and then another bus from the ferry to Victoria. This entire route will take approximately 4 hours. Basically, you need to take the Canada Line and ride the SkyTrain to Bridgeport Station and then take bus 620 from bay 11 to Tsawwassen ferry terminal (45 minutes or more). Jump on the ferry and take it to Swartz Bay (1.5 hours). Once on Vancouver Island, catch the 70 express bus or 72 bus to downtown Victoria (1 hour +). The total cost, including the ferry, will cost around $30.

Getting to Victoria by Tour

Another option for exploring Victoria and Vancouver is a tour from Vancouver that includes the ferry .

How to Get Around Victoria

Victoria is not a huge city, and thus, there is no subway train system. There is, however, a pretty good public bus network, as well as taxis to get you around. You could also rent a car, or if not going too far, Victoria is also a great place to walk or bike.

Bus: Public bus will take you almost anywhere you need to go within Victoria, as well as to the airport and the ferry terminal. Check the BC Transit schedule and also NextRide, which provides real-time bus arrival. Another option is to take the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus, which takes you to all the popular tourist sites, allowing you to get on and off as you please.

Taxi: Like most of Canada, taxis are not cheap but they can be convenient. Prices start around $3.50 CAD and go up by $1.89 CAD per kilometre after.

Bicycle: Victoria is a wonderful city to traverse by bike. There are a variety of options for renting a bike, including electric bikes as well. Another option is the u-bike , which you just grab and go across the city. The only thing you’ll need in advance is an account. The cost is approximately $1 for 30 minutes.

Walk: If you’re only going to be exploring downtown Victoria, walking is the best way to do it. There are even self-guided walking tours and paid tours you could partake in.

Carshare: Another way to get around is by carshare, which is currently operated by both Modo and Zipcar.

Harbour Ferry: For inner-city travel, the Harbour Ferry is a great way to get around and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. It runs from mid-February until the end of October (weather permitting).

Weather for Victoria Travel (Best Time to Visit)

Victoria is one of the mildest cities in Canada, receiving very little snowfall and rarely dipping below 0°C. It does, however, get quite a bit of rain during the winter months.

March-May: The spring months are actually a great time to visit Victoria, as this is when many flowers being to bloom and the weather warms up. The average temperature is about 10°C – 18°C (50-65 degrees F).

June-August: Like most of Canada, the summer months are the busiest and costliest time to visit. However, this is when the weather is at its warmest. With maximum warmth and minimum rain, this is the best time for getting outdoors and going walking, biking or hiking. It’s also a better time to go whale watching. You’ll want to consider booking accommodation weeks or even months in advance. The average temperature is around 22°C (73 degrees F).

September-November: The fall is also a great time to visit the island, though you should expect more rain. However, we explored the island in September and had beautiful weather for weeks. We also went whale watching on the last day of the season and had the best whale-watching tour of our lives. You just never know. Just pack a sweater and a rain jacket and umbrella and you’ll be fine. The average temperature is 15°C – 20°C (55-68 degrees F).

December-February: These months represent the winter and is known as the offseason in Victoria. If you don’t mind colder weather and rain, this is the best time to save money on accommodation as well as avoid crowds. There is also skiing on Vancouver Island if you’re looking to go skiing or snowboarding. The average temperature is 9°C (47 degrees F).

Fun Things to Do on Vancouver Island and Beyond

Another great part about Victoria is that there are so many things to do outside of the city as well. From going hiking in the rainforest to camping on a beach to driving up to Tofino to go surfing, Vancouver Island is a place you could spend weeks exploring. You could also head over to Vancouver and continue exploring mainland Canada. The options are seemingly endless.

For more on what to do outside of Victoria, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in British Columbia
• Best Hotels in Victoria
• Two-Day Victoria Itinerary
• Things to Do in Vancouver
• Driving from Vancouver to Calgary
• Canada Road Trip Ideas

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 5, 2021 at 7:18 pm

This looks so amazing! Thanks for all this information!

April 7, 2021 at 12:56 pm

What a great article, highlighting so many of Victoria’s attractions. Reading this has made me what to revisit many of them.

April 28, 2021 at 2:06 pm

Articles really make me want to see all of this for myself.

May 10, 2021 at 7:27 pm

When visiting Butchart Gardens – leave your selfie sticks at home, they’re not allowed in the gardens. Yay – finally banned!

May 12, 2021 at 8:50 am

I love Victoria!

May 13, 2021 at 2:52 pm

The gardens are so beautiful at Butchart Gardens, this is definitely on my bucket list.

May 18, 2021 at 8:23 am

Looking forward to getting out to Victoria again. I love it out there!

May 26, 2021 at 6:45 pm

I’ve always wanted to go explore Victoria

January 8, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Great website, each spot is beautifully articulated!

Being new to Canada, this was a great way to learn about incredible and historical places. Hope the situation gets better to get my boots out soon, and plan for my most awaited AB and BC adventure trip this summer.

January 8, 2022 at 1:17 pm

Thank you so much. Yes, we really hope it becomes easier too. Have you seen our Youtube channel?

June 6, 2022 at 10:08 pm

There’s a few things in here I didn’t know about. Happy to find new places to explore.

March 9, 2023 at 11:20 am

We missed you at Haunted Manor Mini Golf! See you next time hopefully?!

March 9, 2023 at 11:58 am

That would be awesome! Not sure when we’ll be back but hopefully not long

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The Ultimate Guide to Victoria, British Columbia (Things to Do)

Updated September 2023

As I watched a bald eagle swoop through the air, I was quickly reminded why British Columbia is so special. Welcome to British Columbia’s gem of a destination, Victoria.

Victoria, British Columbia seems to have it all — the wildlife, incredible cuisine, a warm welcome, and those landscapes you can’t get enough of. With four nights, I was ready to dive into everything that this vibrant city on Vancouver Island has to offer.

Surrounded by the Salish Sea, the culture of Victoria has a lighthearted tempo to it, you are on an island after all. Between exploring the harbor and its wonderful restaurants and history, to getting outside for sea kayaking and whale watching, the time was the perfect blend of the outdoors and city.

It’s something truly unique to Victoria — the ability to experience otherworldly landscapes and then enjoy world-class cuisine right afterward. If you’re looking for an escape with the best of both worlds, take a look at just what I loved while visiting Victoria.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Victoria:

• Oak Bay Beach Ho tel , for the best Oak Bay hotel
• The Magnolia Hotel & Spa , for the best Inner Harbour hotel

Things to Do

Kayak on the salish sea.

• Go Whale Watching
• Book a Brewery and Food Tour

For more inspiration for how to spend your time in Victoria, check out 5 Experiences Not to Miss in Victoria, British Columbia .

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Victoria, British Columbia

 getting to victoria & transportation in victoria, getting there.

With daily flights offered into Victoria, you can easily arrive at Victoria International Airport from any major airport (some flights may require a layover in Vancouver). If you’re arriving from nearby destinations, a ferry into the harbor is also an option.

Upon arrival, depending on if you plan to explore more of the island, a rental car could be considered. If you are planning on exploring Victoria itself and plan to stay near the Inner Harbor, then there is no need for a car.

You can book transportation into the city with YYJ Airport transfer and the service will bring you from the airport to most hotels in Victoria. Once in the center, most of everything is within walking distance. There are also local taxis for longer distances. (Note: Uber is not available.)

Where to Stay in Victoria

Oak bay beach ho tel.

Located in the quiet community of Oak Bay, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel is the hotel for those looking to be right on the ocean’s edge. It is a peaceful escape from the city center and only a ten-minute drive from the center. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service so you can still access the city and enjoy the retreat. At the hotel, each of the rooms is well-appointed and provides a cozy space. One highlight of a stay at Oak Bay Beach Hotel is their spa. Right on the water, the spa features heated mineral pools (open late) and rooms for treatments. Book the best rates here .

The Magnolia Hotel & Spa

In the heart of the Inner Harbour, the boutique Magnolia Hotel & Spa is a charming place to stay. The rooms have fresh décor, each outfitted with amenities needed for a well-rounded stay. The hotel also has complimentary bikes to use while staying, making for a great adventure around the city (be sure to check out the personalized bike routes!). The Magnolia Hotel & Spa is footsteps from everything you’ll want to visit in Victoria and provides the perfect location for those looking to explore the downtown. Book the best rates here .

Other Hotels to Consider Booking

• Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour , for a modern stay with a central location.
• Oswego Hotel , for a boutique hotel right in the neighborhood of James Bay

Where to Eat in Victoria

In the Oak Bay Village is Vis-à-vis , a charming brasserie-style restaurant. Their menu has all of the classics you could wish for from a French restaurant — from French onion soup to moules, it’s a quaint dining experience.

Nourish Kitchen & Café

With brunch being one of the top meals in the city, Nourish is the place to go. Situated in an 1888 heritage home, their multi-level space has plenty of rooms to dine in. Their seasonal menu serves locally sourced ingredients and they even have their own garden. One of my favorite dishes was the “Sleeping Beauty Pancakes!” You can even stop in to grab a coffee to go at their coffee counter.

The Courtney Room

Inside the Magnolia Hotel & Spa , this newer, fine-dining restaurant has received recognition for its creative menu and cocktails. The Courtney Room’s fresh take on brasserie food meets British Columbia ingredients and finds dishes that are equally innovative and delicious. On the weekends, they also offer a delicious brunch that you can reserve for as well.

Q at the Empress

Inside the Fairmont Empress is Q at the Empress , an upscale restaurant that services one of the best meals in town. Their extensive menu and wine list showcase the best of British Columbia. I’d come in for a happy hour at the bar to soak in the harbor views and then enjoy dinner in the dining room afterward.

Superbaba is a casual restaurant in the heart of the city center. I loved their Mediterranean menu that featured everything from hummus plates to falafel bowls.

A favorite from Vancouver, Tacofino opened up a restaurant in Victoria. Their modern take on tacos and other classic Mexican dishes are delicious.

The Fish Store

Head to The Fish Store if you’re down in the wharf and want to get fish & chips or fresh seafood.

Grab a Coffee

There is great coffee to be found across the city. Some of my favorites were:

• Habit Coffee
• Discovery Coffee (multiple locations)
• Saint Cecilia
• Shatterbox Coffee

Things to Do in Victoria

Brewery hop.

As a key player in the microbrewery scene in Canada, Victoria has an incredible range of breweries to experience. You could spend a week there and not try them all.

You could book a brewery and food tour as well if you want something guided. This highly-rated tour also takes you to several breweries in town, covering art and the different locations.

My favorite breweries visited include:

• Phillips Brewing & Malting Co.
• The Drake Eatery
• Vancouver Island Brewing
• Ile Sauvage Brewing Co.

Check out the BC Ale Trail  for more locations.

What I loved about my time in Victoria was being so close to nature. One way to experience it is on a guided Oak Bay kayaking tour that takes you out onto the sea. We got to see so much wildlife up close from bald eagles to seals all while learning about the important eco-system that supports this part of Victoria. Book the tour here .

Explore the Royal BC Museum

I loved popping into this museum for a couple of hours and exploring the natural history room. The Royal BC Museum does a great job of exploring the local ecosystems and explaining the importance of conservation.

Go Whale Watching with Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours

A highlight while visiting Victoria was an opportunity to go whale watching. On my four-hour tour , we had a chance to get up close (safely) to killer whales — we even saw one breach. It’s hard to put into words just how special it is to see whales in their natural habitat and would highly recommend this tour. Booking with Eagle Wing Whales is a great choice as they are the first carbon-neutral tour company and make a strong effort towards conservation for the whales. When going out on their tour, they often will stay out a little late if it means a better experience to see the whales, so you don’t feel rushed out. Truly an incredible adventure in Victoria. Book the tour here .

Enjoy a Spa Day at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel

If you’re looking for a relaxing spa experience, then I would book a treatment at the spa at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel . With its mineral pools that overlook the sea, It’s the perfect city escape and not far from downtown. One standout treatment that I tried was the “Ocean Elements Body Ritual” which used local seaweed and other minerals to decompress and relax.

Experience Canada’s oldest Chinatown

One area of Victoria worth a visit is Chinatown and a walk-through Fan Tan Alley . Its colorful buildings and shops are so fun to explore and get a taste of local culture.

See the Butchart Gardens

Though I didn’t make it out to the gardens this trip, it is one of the top things to do in Victoria. It’s well worth a visit as these iconic gardens are stunning.

Tour the Craigdorrach Castle

Who would have thought there was a castle in the heart of Victoria? I did the self-guided tour through the well-preserved castle and enjoyed exploring the neighborhood afterward. This part of Victoria is stunning and great for an afternoon stroll.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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7 Reasons to Visit Victoria, B.C.

Between mild temperatures, year-round blooms and abundant natural landscape, this unique coastal city begs to be explored. Read on to discover seven reasons why Victoria should be at the top of your travel bucket list this spring.

Mild Temperature

Victoria, B.C. is ideally nestled in a micro-climate that sees far less precipitation than its West Coast neighbours and has the mildest median temperature in Canada. This means when you visit Victoria, don’t expect a Canadian tundra. You’ll be able to explore Victoria’s lush landscape, secret waterfalls, year-round blooms, mountains and unique natural treasures, 365 days of the year.

Natural Landscape 

In a day, visitors can discover complex micro-ecosystems within tide pools at Botanical Beach , stand amongst giants in Avatar Grove, sip wine in the Cowichan Valley , surf at Sombrio Beach , soak up the sun at Willow’s beach , wander through 55-acres of famous gardens and climb to incredible views in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Greater Victoria and the surrounding area has no shortage of landscapes to discover.

Image by @fieldandforest

Victoria’s rugged and pristine wilderness was first home to First Nations people and today retains deep ties to indigenous culture. Learn more by visiting the Royal BC Museum where you can discover the Our Living Languages exhibit, explore the First Peoples Galleries and discover the indigenous collections.

During the summer you can visit indigenous artists during the Indigenous Summer Arts Studio Program and take part in the Indigenous Cultural Festival in June.

Named after Queen Victoria, is it any wonder Victoria is rich in history? Between coal barons building West Coast castles, the oldest Chinatown in Canada, gardens built by royalty, afternoon tea and more, Victoria has stories best recounted in person.

Image by @wisteria_voyage

Greater Victoria’s enviable climate allows Islanders to grow, harvest, forage and prepare local dishes far beyond the typical growing season experienced by the rest of Canada. Many restaurants around Victoria have embraced the farm-to-table movement and are offering up some incredible dishes.

With British roots, it’s safe to say we’ve carried on some traditions, like afternoon tea . Around the city, visitors can find delicious and unique variations on this tradition.

As the brunch capital of Canada, you’ll soon realize why the locals are highly committed to their weekend brunch plans. From egg bennies on a potato latke at The Village to the sleeping beauty pancakes at Nourish , Victoria offers an incredible brunch selection for every appetite.  

Image by @leilalikes of @qattheempress

City of Gardens

Victoria’s mild climate allows horticulture to flourish here, something that shows in the locals’ gardens, great and small. From January through May, streets in Victoria are transformed into tunnels of pink and white as cherry blossoms burst forth. In summer, flower baskets hang from lamp posts and visitors enjoy Beacon Hill Park , a 200-acre park in the centre of the city. Victoria is also home to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens , a 55-acre award-winning garden that is a must-see when visiting. 

The waters off Vancouver Island are rich in biodiversity. Perhaps most well known is the population of southern resident killer whales that call the Salish Sea home. However, transient orcas, humpback whales, seals, otters, coastal wolves and more can also be spotted in these waters. Although venturing out on coastal trails always comes with a chance of seeing these magnificent locals, witnessing Vancouver Island’s wildlife first-hand is best done with local whale and wildlife watching companies . If you’re a seasoned scuba diver, delve beneath the surface and explore some of the most vibrant diving in the world. 

Image by @brendonbissonnette via @eaglewingtours

From age-old traditions such as afternoon tea and horse-drawn carriages to classic architecture illuminated at dusk by thousands of lights, Victoria has an undeniable charm. Perhaps just as charming as the city itself, are the locals – named among the friendliest in the world ( Conde Nast Traveler, 2018 ).

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36 Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is one of our favorite places in the world and it’s not hard to see why. There’s just so much to love about this beautiful city!

Located on Vancouver Island’s southern edge, Victoria — the capital city of British Columbia — offers an amazing blend of natural coastal beauty, historical architecture, friendly locals, incredible restaurants, mild climate, and so many fun things to do!

As locals, we feel incredibly lucky to call this beautiful city home. Since moving here, we’ve explored every nook and cranny of Victoria and have uncovered some of the best things to do and places to see in the city.

Below, we cover the best things to do and see in Victoria, based on our local knowledge and experiences. We share the top activities, hidden gems, and must-visit landmarks, with insider tips to help you make the most of your time in our beloved city. Enjoy!

Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

From scenic seaplane flights and whale watching tours to famous flower gardens and beautiful beaches, Victoria is packed full of top things to do, beautiful places to see, and fun activities for just about every type of traveler!

Owing to the sheer abundance of activities, it can be hard to decide on what to do in Victoria, BC. We’ve been living here for years but still haven’t done and seen everything!

Don’t worry though — we’re here to help you pick the best things to do, places to see, activities, and must-visit attractions when visiting Victoria. Read on to discover the best that this city has to offer!

1. Butchart Gardens

Visiting the world-famous Butchart Gardens easily makes it to the top of our list of the best things to do in Victoria, BC — and for good reason!

One of the most popular gardens and tourist spots in Victoria, the Butchart Gardens are a must-see destination, year-round. Formerly a limestone quarry, the 55-acre property now houses thousands of colorful flowers and perfectly manicured plants, as well as stunning fountains, unique sculptures, totem poles, and even a carousel!

Related Article: Beautiful Gardens around Victoria, BC

Some of the most picturesque areas include the Sunken Garden, which is breathtaking every time we see it, and the Japanese Garden, complete with a towering Torii gate and gorgeous Japanese maples. We also love the impressive Ross Fountain and bronze Butchart Boar statue — apparently, rubbing its nose is good luck!

As if that all wasn’t enough, the Butchart Gardens also puts on a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday evenings in summer. And in December, the gardens transform into a magical winter wonderland of twinkling lights and festive decorations during the Magic of Christmas event .

Related Article: Festive Things to Do at Christmas in Victoria, BC

Located in Brentwood Bay, the gardens are just a quick half-hour drive from downtown Victoria. Don’t have your own car to get there? This Butchart Gardens shuttle bus (admission included) will take you from downtown Victoria to the gardens, and back after!

For a daytrip from Vancouver to Victoria, this Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver will shuttle you by bus and ferry from Vancouver to Victoria and back. They even pick you up from your hotel in Vancouver.

Alternatively, arrive to Victoria in style on a seaplane flight from Vancouver , which includes transportation and admission to Butchart Gardens. Both of these day trips will also give you time to explore the Inner Harbour and see sights like Chinatown, BC Parliament Buildings, and the Empress Hotel.

Book the Butchart Gardens Shuttle Bus Here!

Book the butchart gardens bus tour from vancouver here, book the butchart gardens seaplane tour from vancouver here, 2. whale watching tour.

Who doesn’t want to experience the magic of spotting whales around Victoria?

Whale watching tours are one of the best ways to see these magnificent marine mammals, while also exploring Victoria’s coastal waters while you’re at it. If you’re lucky, you might spot a whale from land — but these tours guarantee a sighting!

Around Victoria, you’ll have the chance to spot gray, humpback, and minke whales, as well as our favorite — orcas! There are also the smaller Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbour porpoises, and Dall’s porpoises, as well as other marine animals like Steller and California sea lions, harbour seals, river otters, and seabirds.

With a whale watching tour (like this half-day tour ), you’ll search for whales while experiencing the beauty of the Salish Sea. Don’t forget your camera! Thanks to marine experts, you’ll also learn more about the ecology of the whales in the area.

Sunset whale watching tours are our favorite. Ideal for photographers, these evening tours take you onto the water just before the sun sets, searching for whales in the golden light of dusk.

If you want to enjoy the sun more while you’re on the water, there are also half-day whale watching tours that head out in the morning or afternoon. You can choose to go out on a semi-covered vessel or for the more adventurous, a zodiac boat . If you don’t want to get splashed, we highly recommend sticking with the semi-covered boats!

Book the Sunset Whale Watching Tour Here!

Book the half-day whale watching tour (semi-covered boat) here, book the half-day whale watching tour (zodiac boat) here, 3. walking food tour.

Foodies, rejoice! A walking food tour in Victoria is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the city for those who want to experience all the local tastes.

Munch your way through Victoria’s culinary scene while enjoying a guided walking tour of the city with this Food and History Tour . Enjoy many local foods while learning about the rich history of the city!

Starting at the Victoria Public Market, you’ll explore highlights around downtown Victoria. Marvel at the Gate of Harmonious Interest in Chinatown, walk down the incredibly narrow Fan Tan Alley, stop at the historic Bastion Square, explore the charming Trounce Alley, and more!

Along the way, you’ll stop for food tastings from various local restaurants. Participants get to taste a wide range of locally sourced foods, from fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses to locally brewed beers and handcrafted chocolates.

The knowledgeable and friendly guides make this experience enjoyable and informative for all ages, making it a must-do activity for any visitor to Victoria!

Book a Food and History Walking Tour Here!

4. chinatown & fan tan alley.

Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown (and North America’s second oldest), which is just north of downtown. This historical neighborhood offers visitors a taste of Chinese culture, with its vibrant colors, traditional architecture, delicious cuisine, and boutique shops.

The entrance of Chinatown is marked by the famous Gate of Harmonious Interest. This 38-foot tall ornate gate spans over Fisgard Street and welcomes visitors to the neighborhood with its intricate designs and stone lion sculptures.

Despite being small, Victoria’s Chinatown is packed full of unique shops selling all kinds of goods and souvenirs, restaurants serving Chinese cuisine like dim sum or bubble tea, grocery stores with specialty foods like durian and lychee, and narrow alleyways.

Don’t miss the easily-overlooked Fan Tan Alley while wandering around Chinatown. A hidden gem in Victoria, Fan Tan Alley is the narrowest street in all of Canada at only 0.9 meters (35 inches) wide in places! Marked only by a small sign on a lamppost, it’s easy to walk past this small street — keep your eyes peeled!

One of the best ways to fully experience Victoria’s Chinatown is on a two-hour Eat, Drink, and Explore Chinatown walking tour. On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of Chinatown’s heritage sites like the Chinese Language School, the Gate of Harmonious Interest, and Fan Tan Alley.

And of course, this food tour lets you sample a variety of foods and drinks from local vendors in the Victoria Public Market and Market Square. You’ll be treated to locally-roasted coffees, savory hand pies, arancini, and even some craft beer!

Book the Eat, Drink, Explore Chinatown Tour Here!

5. seaplane flight.

Scenic floatplane tours are one of the best ways to see Victoria — from a bird’s eye view!

Soaring above the city skyline is the ideal way to admire all the great sights that Victoria is known for. Not only that, the seaplanes take off and land right in the Inner Harbour.

If you haven’t flown in a floatplane before, it’s quite a unique experience!

Book a Panorama Seaplane Tour for an unforgettable adventure. You’ll board the seaplane at the Victoria Harbour Airport terminal. Then, the floatplane will skim quickly along the water of Victoria’s Harbour before taking to the skies.

From above, you’ll be treated to spectacular aerial views of Victoria and Vancouver Island’s southern coast. Look for landmarks like the Saanich Peninsula, Finlayson Arm, Mount Douglas, Salt Spring Island, and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Overall, a scenic floatplane tour is an excellent way to see the city of Victoria and its surroundings from a unique perspective, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Book a Scenic Floatplane Tour Here!

6. beacon hill park.

Looking for one of the best free things to do in Victoria? Check out Beacon Hill Park!

Beacon Hill Park is an expansive 75 hectare (200 acre) park by the Dallas Road waterfront. Not only does this park command an excellent location right by the ocean, but it is also within walking distance of downtown.

Often considered the crown jewel park of Victoria, Beacon Hill features rare Garry Oak meadows that fill with blossoms in the spring, year-round flower gardens , lily ponds with turtles, beautiful fountains, sports fields of all kinds, and more.

There’s even the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm (admission by donation), one of the fun family-friendly things to do in Victoria.

Beacon Hill Park is also home to what was once the tallest free-standing totem pole in the world. You’ll find this impressive carved cedar tree near the woods beside Dallas Road. Often, there will be a bald eagle perched at the very top!

Wander through Beacon Hill Park on foot or treat yourself to a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for unique sights like colorful peacocks or the Moss Lady statue. In the summer, the park is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the weekend concerts held at the Cameron Bandshell.

7. Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

One of the most unique ways to explore Victoria is on a horse-drawn carriage tour . Enjoy the clip-clop of the horses’ hooves on the pavement and the gentle pace of the carriage as you take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful city.

These relaxing tours take visitors through Victoria’s picturesque downtown, past must-see spots, and beside the waterfront. Along the way, you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings and Empress Hotel.

Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will share stories and anecdotes about the city as you ride through its streets.

For a full show of all that downtown Victoria has to offer, we recommend this 60-minute horse-drawn carriage tour . The tour cost covers the entire carriage (up to 6 people), making this one of the top things to do in Victoria with a group or for a romantic date.

You’ll start the tour beside the Empress Hotel and then journey through the stunning Beacon Hill Park. After, the carriage will head along the Dallas Road waterfront. Enjoy incredible views of the Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca, before heading back downtown through the historic James Bay neighborhood.

Book the Horse Drawn Carriage Tour Here!

8. bc parliament buildings.

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, the BC Parliament Buildings are truly a sight to behold. Standing on the edge of the Inner Harbour, the neo-baroque buildings feature a grand façade, renaissance-style copper domes, statues of historical figures, gorgeous water fountains, and more.

The Parliament Buildings are home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, but you don’t need to be a fan of politics, history, or architecture to visit this beautiful landmark. Many visitors walk its gorgeous grounds to enjoy views of these iconic buildings or to just to snap a photo of the front.

While visitors often stop to admire the front of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, there is so much more to see than just that! Make sure to walk around the buildings to spot sights like the Centennial Fountain, Rose Garden, and all of the various statues and monuments. Visit at night to admire the building’s exterior lights, too.

And yes, you can go inside the Parliament Buildings! Don’t miss seeing the grand interior, like we did when we first moved here.

Entry is free from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. There are free self-guided or public tours, which include the Rotunda, Legislative Chamber, Legislative Library, and Hall of Honour.

Whether you want to observe a debate from the public gallery, take pictures of the stained glass windows (there are hundreds of them!), or see the traditional hand-crafted Shxwtitostel canoe, rest assured that there’s always plenty to keep you entertained for the day!

9. Craigdarroch Castle

Did you know that there’s a castle near downtown Victoria?

Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful Victorian-era mansion located in the heart of Victoria near the Government House — and it’s actually one of TWO castles in the city!

Originally, Craigdarroch Castle was an extravagant home for the wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family, built in the late 1800s. Now, the castle is a National Historic Site and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Victoria.

Wander through the castle on a self-guided tour, learning about its fascinating history and that of the family that lived there. The castle is open from Thursday through Sunday (10:00 am – 4:00 pm).

Even if you don’t want to tour the castle, it’s worth stopping by to see the outside! The historic building really stands out in the Rockland neighborhood. When the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, the castle combined with the pink flowers make for stunning photographs!

For a unique experience, consider joining a 2.5-hour Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour which combines your castle admission with a pedicab tour of the area. On the way to the castle, you’ll pass by points of interest like the Government House (the gardens here are free and worth a visit ).

If you haven’t had enough of castles after exploring Craigdarroch, you can always head over to Hatley Castle in Colwood, another National Historic Site located just 20 minutes away!

Book a Craigdarroch Castle Pedicab Tour Here!

10. fairmont empress hotel.

A visit to the historic and iconic Empress Hotel is an absolute must-do when you’re in Victoria, BC. While the Empress is one of the best oceanfront hotels in Victoria , it’s not just a hotel but a cultural landmark that has played an integral part in the city’s history for over 100 years.

One of the world’s most famous hotels, The Empress was built in the early 1900s and designated a National Historic Site in the 1980s. The hotel has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years, including Queen Elizabeth II, King George VI, and Shirley Temple.

To experience the most that The Empress has to offer, book a stay in one of its many luxurious guest rooms. But that’s not the only thing you can do at this hotel!

The Empress is well known for its world-renowned afternoon tea, a time-honored ritual lasting for over a century. This elegant experience treats guests to a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and decadent pastries, served on royal china and accompanied with classical piano.

Make reservations in advance — this is easily one of the most coveted activities in Victoria! Just be forewarned — the afternoon tea is on the pricey side.

Even if you don’t stay or eat at The Empress, make sure to visit this iconic landmark. The hotel’s stunning architecture and location on Victoria’s Inner Harbour make for some beautiful photographs. A visit to The Empress is a truly unforgettable experience that combines luxury, history, and stunning views, making it one of the best things to do in Victoria!

Check The Empress Hotel Prices Here!

11. inner harbor.

Don’t miss visiting the Inner Harbour if you’re looking for the must-see destinations in Victoria!

One of the most beautiful harbors in the world, Victoria’s Inner Harbour has everything — picturesque waterfront views, historic buildings, delicious dining options, boutique shops, and a vibrant atmosphere that truly captures the essence of the city. In addition, the harbor services many businesses like whale watching and floatplane tours .

Take a stroll along the harbor causeway and admire the stunning architecture of the Fairmont Empress Hotel and British Columbia Parliament Buildings. During the summer months, this area turns into bustling tourist hotspot with street performers, music, food vendors, and sightseers from all over the world.

Visitors can also enjoy whale watching excursions or simply relax in one of the many waterfront cafes and restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided kayak tour to explore the waters of the Inner Harbour — one of the best harbours to paddle around in the world!

Of course, no visit to Victoria’s Inner Harbor would be complete without checking out the iconic Pickle Boats. These small ferry boats cruise all around the harbour, connecting different destinations like Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Empress. And yes, these water taxis are shaped like tiny pickles!

12. Royal BC Museum

Home to over 7 million specimens and artifacts, the Royal BC Museum is one of the largest in Canada — and well worth a visit!

This world-class museum is dedicated to both human and natural history, offering incredible learning experiences for visitors of all ages. Visiting the museum is one of the best family-friendly things to do in Victoria — but it’s also lots of fun for adults too!

One of the most beloved exhibits at the Royal BC Museum is the Giant Mammoth. This life-size replica is named Woolly and was based on a real-life mammoth skeleton discovered in 1931.

For an immersive experience, check out the Old Town exhibit, designed to make visitors feel like they’re meandering through Victoria’s cobbled streets back at the turn of the century.

The museum also regularly brings in traveling exhibits, so there are always new things to see!

When you’re done look at artefacts, stop by the IMAX theatre in the Royal BC Museum to check out a movie or informative documentary. There are showtimes all through the day!

No trip to the Royal B.C. Museum would be complete without a visit to Thunderbird Park, known for its impressive collection of totem poles. Located just outside the museum, Thunderbird Park is free to visit — so make sure to check it out!

The Royal BC Museum is a must-see destination in Victoria, with its vast collection of specimens and artifacts, incredible exhibits, IMAX theatre, and stunning outdoor Thunderbird Park. Visiting this museum is a great way to spend a day and learn more about the fascinating history and culture of the area.

Note: The Royal BC Museum’s third floor is currently closed as they work on decolonization and renovation of the galleries. Click here for the museum’s current exhibitions .

13. Ghostly Walking Tour

Looking for a unique activity to do in Victoria ? If you’re in the mood for something different, consider taking a ghost tour of the city’s downtown!

The 60-minute Ghostly Walking Tours offer an unusual and intriguing way to experience the city. Led by talented storytellers, this spooky tour guides you through some of downtown’s most haunted spots. You’ll also get to see many of Victoria’s well known landmarks along the way.

Get ready to be spooked as your knowledgeable guide shares Victoria’s ghost stories and tragic tales! One of the best things about this tour is the opportunity to learn more about the unusual side of Victoria’s history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an eerie adventure, this tour offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this spine-tingling opportunity to explore Victoria’s haunted history!

Book a Ghostly Walking Tour Here!

14. fisherman’s wharf.

Just a short walk around the corner from the Inner Harbour, you’ll find the quirky Fisherman’s Wharf. A floating marine destination, this must-visit spot features brightly-colored float homes, outdoor eateries, unique souvenir shops, and various ecotourism businesses like whale watching tours .

The colorful floating homes are one of the most whimsical features of Fisherman’s Wharf. Unfortunately, they are private residences and can’t be explored. But, if you want to experience what it’s like to stay in a floating home, book a room at the Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast !

Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to head for lunch. The floating outdoor restaurants serve all types of seafood, from fish n’ chips to freshly caught shellfish. Enjoy your meal at a picnic table, while taking in the lively atmosphere and watching the boats come and go. You might even catch a glimpse of seals!

After, if you’ve got some extra time to spare, you can always hop on a water taxi to explore the rest of Victoria’s Harbour. Alternatively, join one of the whale watching tours that depart from Fisherman’s Wharf to spot some marine wildlife like orcas and sea lions.

As a heads up, Fisherman’s Wharf is best visited in the summer months. Most businesses at the wharf are shut during the winter season. Also, expect crowds during peak tourist season!

Check Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Bed & Breakfast Prices Here!

15. victoria butterfly gardens.

Visiting the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is the perfect activity for a rainy or chilly day in the city. These indoor gardens provide an escape to the tropics without leaving British Columbia!

As you enter the gardens, you will be greeted by up to 70 species of butterflies, fluttering free among the plants. Our favorites are the massive atlas moths (which live less than a week after leaving their cocoons) and the orange-and-black monarch butterflies (known for their incredible multi-generational migrations).

Adding to the jungle experience, the gardens also house free-flying parrots and other tropical birds, like Caribbean flamingos! Other animals you’ll get to see include iguanas, tortoises, turtles, and poison dart frogs. You’ll also find a small stream, waterfall, and pond full of tropical fish!

Not only that, the indoor garden is a botanical wonderland. Here, you’ll find all kinds of flowers and plants from different parts of the world. They even have carnivorous plants that eat insects and sensitive Mimosa plants that close their leaves after being touched.

A visit to the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a perfect way to spend a relaxing and fun-filled afternoon with your loved ones. Plus, since the Victoria Butterfly Gardens are located near Brentwood Bay, it’s an excellent activity to add to your day’s itinerary before or after visiting the Butchart Gardens.

Book Victoria Butterfly Garden Admission Tickets Here!

16. beaches.

It’s no secret that some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia are found in Victoria. After all, the city is practically surrounded by the ocean!

Willows Beach is by far the most popular beach in Victoria. One of the few sandy beaches in town, it does admittedly get crowded in the summer… but it’s so worth visiting.

With a grassy park, soft sand, and shallow water, Willows Beach is the perfect spot for a picnic, long walk, or quick dip in the ocean. We also love playing spikeball here!

Another incredible sandy beach in Victoria is Gonzales Beach . Located in a sheltered bay, we find that Gonzales is one of the best beaches in Victoria to head on a windy day. The water here is calm, making it a family-friendly beach that’s great for swimming — if you can brave the cold water, that is!

Head to the Dallas Road waterfront for another beautiful beach — Spiral Beach. This rocky beach isn’t great for swimming but it’s incredibly scenic! There are stairs to get down to the beach near Cook Street or Clover Point.

Looking for more beaches in Victoria to explore? Check out our articles on the best sandy beaches , most beautiful beaches , and most accessible beaches in town!

17. Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus

Hop-on hop-off buses are one of the best ways to explore the beautiful city of Victoria. Not to mention, they are all double-decker buses with an open top half — which makes them loads more fun to ride than a normal bus!

These sightseeing buses offer a convenient and flexible way to see the city’s top attractions. You get unlimited access for a half day. The buses are available from March through to October.

Points of interest on the bus routes include the Fairmont Empress Hotel , Craigdarroch Castle, Chinatown, Old Town, Fisherman’s Wharf, Inner Harbour, BC Parliament Buildings, Christ Church Cathedral, Oak Bay Village and Marina, Cook Street Village, and the Breakwater .

With the freedom to get off at any stop and explore at your own pace, you can customize your tour according to your interests and schedule. They are the perfect way to get around if you don’t have a vehicle!

Buy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tickets Here!

18. government street.

Government Street is easily one of the most vibrant and pedestrian-friendly roads in Victoria. If you want to see some of the city’s iconic landmarks, check out local restaurants and bars, or just love shopping, this is the place to head!

While the street starts at Dallas Road and runs all the way to Douglas Street, the central portion (between Chinatown and the Inner Harbour) is the most lively and packed full of top things to do.

An entertainment and shopping hub, Government Street is lined with an assortment of boutique stores, restaurants, bars, historical buildings, and iconic landmarks. In the summer, there are often street performers, too!

Walking is the best way to explore Government Street. We recommend that you start at Beacon Hill Park or the BC Parliament buildings and head north towards Chinatown. Along the way, you’ll spot all kinds of must-see tourist destinations, including Bastion Square and the Empress.

If you want to learn more about the history of this area, we recommend joining a Historical Victoria Walking Tour !

Book a Historical Walking Tour Here!

19. malahat skywalk.

Looking for unparalleled views of the Salish Sea? If so, the Malahat SkyWalk should be at the top of your itinerary when visiting Victoria!

One of the more unique things to do in Victoria, the Malahat SkyWalk is a spiral 32-m high tower offering 360-degree views from the top. You’ll be able to see the Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, and all the way to Mount Baker!

Here’s one of the most fun parts about the Malahat Skywalk: when you’re done at the top, you get to slide all the way back down!

The Spiral Slide is 50 m (165 feet) long and 20 m (65 feet) tall. You can ride it as many times as you’d like.

There’s also an exciting adventure net at the top of the tower. Walk on it if you dare (don’t worry — it’s safe)!

The Malahat SkyWalk is just north of Victoria on the Malahat Highway, along the edge of the Saanich Inlet. You’ll need a vehicle to get there. If you don’t have one, consider this round-trip shuttle service from downtown Victoria (which also includes your admission ticket).

Book Malahat SkyWalk Shuttle and Admission Tickets Here!

20. pkols (mount douglas park).

For incredible 360-degree views of Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea, head to PKOLS (aka Mount Douglas Park) in Saanich.

At 225 meters high, the summit of Mount Doug offers spectacular views of much of Victoria and the surrounding regions. You’ll be able to see downtown Victoria, the rural Saanich Peninsula, Cordova Bay, and even Washington’s Olympic and Cascade Mountains.

There are many hiking trails that lead to the top of PKOLS. Alternatively, you can walk, bike, or drive up to the summit via Churchill Drive. The road is closed to vehicles until noon.

Don’t miss Mount Doug Beach when exploring the park! The beach is located near the large parking lot off Cordova Bay Road. We also recommend parking here, as the Churchill Drive parking lot is quite small.

21. Hot Tub Boat

Do you know what’s better than sightseeing on foot? Exploring Victoria from the cozy comfort of a hot tub boat , of course!

Hot tub boats are one of the most unique and fun ways to explore the Gorge Waterway and Upper Harbour of Victoria. These are Canada’s first hot tub boats and they are a blast to cruise around in.

The floating wood-fired hot tubs launch near the Johnson Street bridge. Each private hot tub boat rental has 1.5 hours on the water. You can cruise all the way to the Selkirk Trestle and back in that time!

The hot tub boats are equipped with waterproof speakers. Enjoy your favorite music while gazing out at Victoria’s historic waterfront. When you’re too hot, you can even go for a swim to cool off, thanks to the onboard ladder!

Book a Hot Tub Boat Here!

22. goldstream provincial park.

Goldstream Provincial Park has it all: stunning waterfalls, incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, moss-covered forests, hiking trails, camping, epic panoramic views of the city…

Despite being on the city’s edge, this park is one of the best places to visit in Victoria if you’re a fan of the outdoors. It’s only 16-km from downtown Victoria, located at the start of the Malahat in Langford.

Goldstream is best known for its impressive salmon run in the fall. Thousands of Chum salmon return to the river and swim upstream to spawn. Visitors can watch this spectacle from late October through November. It’s also a great time of year to see the animals that feed upon the salmon, like bald eagles!

The park features one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Victoria — Niagara Falls. Yes, it has the same name as the one in Ontario. Now while it’s admittedly much smaller than its massive namesake in the east, Goldstream’s Niagara Falls is still quite beautiful! You’ll also find another waterfall, Goldstream Falls, near the campground.

Related Articles: Best Waterfalls Around Victoria, BC

Goldstream Provincial Park is also home to Mount Finlayson, one of Greater Victoria’s highest points and best scenic viewpoints . We do have to point out that the hike to the top isn’t exactly easy since it’s also the steepest trail in the area. But the view from the top is totally worth it, with amazing vistas of the island from every angle!

23. Hiking Trails

Do you love hiking? If so, here’s the great news about Victoria: the city is packed full of hiking trails, with options suitable for just about every fitness level!

A favorite of ours is PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) which just so happens to be one of Victoria’s most dog-friendly hikes . The top of Mount Doug (as locals often call it) offers some of the best views of the city . The summit takes about 20-40 minutes of walking, depending on your fitness level.

If you’re in the mood for something strenuous, climb to the top of Mount Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park. Remember to wear your best hiking boots since the walk to the top is super steep!

For a more relaxing walk, you could always check out the hiking paths around Thetis Lake. Or if you’re looking for spectacular ocean views, we highly recommend hiking part of the Coast Trail in East Sooke Park.

Traveling with kids or need a more accessible walk? Check out the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail, Kinsol Trestle Bridge, or Songhees Walkway!

24. Southern Gulf Islands

While Victoria itself has plenty of things to do, visiting one of the Southern Gulf Islands is an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

While the Gulf Islands archipelago stretches along much of Vancouver Island, the main islands around Victoria are Salt Spring, Galiano, Saturna, Mayne, Pender, and Sidney Islands. Despite how close these islands are to Victoria, they have a distinct feel that makes them worthwhile adding to your Vancouver Island itinerary.

Each of the Southern Gulf Islands has its own charm and attractions, from the laid-back vibe of Galiano Island to the rugged beauty of Saturna Island. Salt Spring Island (also called Saltspring) is the largest, most developed, and most popular to visit.

Mayne Island features beautiful coastline, while Pender Island offers breathtaking hiking trails and chances to spot orcas. Sidney Island feels like a hidden gem, with long sandy beaches and tidal flats.

No matter which island you choose to visit, you’ll find a welcoming community, stunning island scenery, vibrant arts scene, farm-to-table foods, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

And with regular ferry service to and from Victoria, getting to the Gulf Islands is a breeze. These beautiful islands are perfect for a day trip (or longer) and the ferry is a great way to see the ocean scenery around Victoria!

25. Thetis Lake Regional Park

When we first moved to Victoria, Thetis Lake Regional Park quickly became one of our favorite spots in the city — and that hasn’t changed to this day!

Thetis Lake is a 921-hectare natural area featuring two beautiful lakes: Upper and Lower Thetis Lakes. Both lakes are quite popular for swimming, floating, kayaking, and just about any lakeside activity you can think of.

There’s also the smaller Prior Lake, but be warned — it’s clothing-optional!

Not only that, the park has over 40 kilometers of hiking trails. Wander through Douglar fir forests, explore around the lakes, and hike up to beautiful viewpoints at the top of Stewart Mountain, Seymour, or Scafe Hills.

Great for swimming, Thetis Lake is a very busy destination on hot days. In the summer, we highly recommend arriving before noon to beat the crowds. Parking gets pretty ridiculous, so arriving early will let you find a parking space and enjoy the lake before it gets busy.

Thetis Lake also offers ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding. Check out this paddleboarding lesson that’ll take you from the Main Beach to Upper Thetis Lake. Ideal for beginners, you’ll learn how to use a paddleboard while exploring the beautiful lakes!

Book a Thetis Lake Stand-Up Paddleboarding Session Here!

26. fort rodd hill & fisgard lighthouse.

Looking for a family-friendly thing to do or just want to learn about Victoria’s history? If so, head to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood!

Both National Historic Sites, Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse offer a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s military and maritime history. The two sites are directly adjacent to each other.

Built in the 1890’s, Fort Rodd Hill was once an important coastal defense for Vancouver Island. Now, visitors can explore the historic remains, including gun batteries, barracks, command posts, and underground magazines, all while enjoying scenic ocean views.

Meanwhile, the Fisgard Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on Canada’s west coast, dating back to 1860. While it no longer has a keeper, the red-and-white lighthouse is still operational. Enter the lighthouse to learn about everything from shipwrecks to lighthouse keepers.

Admission to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse is cheap, under $10 for adults and free for youths, making them one of the best cheap things to do in Victoria!

Did you enjoy these historic sites? Visit Macaulay Point Park next! Here, you’ll find Fort Macaulay, another coastal defense battery that’s free to visit!

27. Juan de Fuca Provincial Park

Offering spectacular hiking trails, breathtaking beaches, seaside backcountry camping, hidden waterfalls, wildlife spotting opportunities, and tide pools galore , the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true!

One of the park’s main draws is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. This popular hiking and backpacking trail stretches over 40 km along Vancouver Island’s shoreline, between China Beach and Botanical Beach near Port Renfrew.

The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail neighbors the famous West Coast Trail, which starts on the other side of Port Renfrew!

Within the park, you’ll find several incredibly beautiful beaches. From the bowl-shaped tide pools of Botanical Beach to the hidden waterfall at Sombrio, it’s worth checking out all of the beaches along this stretch of protected coastline.

Be sure to check out Mystic Beach, accessed via a short hike through the forest. Here, you’ll find a waterfall that tumbles directly onto the beach!

If you want to stay in the park overnight, there is frontcountry camping in the China Beach Campground. Most of the beaches also allow backcountry camping, with a permit.

28. Waterfalls

While Victoria may be known for its beautiful gardens and picturesque coastline, the city is also home to some stunning waterfalls that are not to be missed.

Chasing waterfalls is one of the top activities in Victoria for those seeking a little adventure and some incredible natural beauty. Because the waterfalls get more impressive after a good rainfall (and some even dry up in the summer), this is one of the best things to do in Victoria in the rainy winter season.

One of the most popular waterfalls in Victoria is Goldstream Provincial Park’s Niagara Falls. The waterfall is close to the parking lot and you can walk almost right up the base of the falls, depending on the time of year.

Another beautiful waterfall to visit is Sitting Lady Falls in Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. This waterfall resembles a sitting lady wearing a dress of water!

If you don’t mind driving outside of town, head to the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park for a couple of waterfalls right by the beach. Both Mystic and Sombrio Beaches feature waterfalls.

While Mystic Beach’s waterfall tumbles right onto the sand, you’ll need to search for the falls on Sombrio. Hint — the waterfall is hidden down a forest trail on the east side of the beach!

Click here to learn about more beautiful waterfalls in Victoria!

29. Cowichan Valley Wine Tour

Did you know that one of the major wine regions in British Columbia is found on Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island’s vineyards are located in the Cowichan Valley, just north of Victoria. While the vineyards on the island operate at a smaller scale than those in the BC Interior, the wines they produce are just as delicious!

With mild temperatures and a long growing season, the Cowichan Valley creates the ideal conditions for growing delicious grapes. Cowichan, a name given by the Quw’utsun people, even reflects the region’s Mediterranean climate and means “to warm one’s back in the sun”!

If you ask us, the Cowichan Valley is the ideal place for sipping on some of the best wines in the country. And the best way to experience the region’s incredible wine scene is by booking a wine tour!

Perfect for wine aficionados, this half-day Cowichan Valley Wine Tour takes you across three wineries — complete with tours and tastings! Offering round-trip transportation from Victoria’s downtown, this activity also includes a delicious lunch at a local boutique winery. 

Book a Cowichan Valley Wine Tour Here!

30. hatley castle.

Didn’t get enough of castles after Craigdarroch? If not, then head to Hatley Castle!

Built in 1908 for James Dunsmuir, Hatley Castle is a Edwardian stone mansion in Colwood that was designed to look just like a castle. The fancy castle stands at Hatley Park on the grounds of the Royal Roads University, overlooking the serene waters of Esquimalt Lagoon .

And if the place looks familiar to you, that’s because it was featured in several movies! Hatley Castle was in movies like Smallville, X-Men, Arrow, and even Deadpool! Cool, right?

Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, this National Historic Site is quite a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon. While the main castle grounds are free to explore, entry into the castle is only permitted on guided tours for a small fee.

While you’re in the area, make sure to explore the many walking trails that lead through the towering forest of Hatley Park. After, stop at the sandy beach of Esquimalt Lagoon , a migratory bird sanctuary known for its shallow lagoon, birdwatching opportunities, sandy beach , and driftwood sculptures.

31. Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Are you into watersports? If so, we’ve got some good news for you! Victoria just so happens to have some amazing kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) opportunities.

Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or are just trying these sports for the first time, Victoria has something for you! Best of all, you don’t need your own gear to try these sports.

If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, that’s great! If you don’t, there are plenty of places to rent gear in the city or take a lesson, if it’s your first time.

For beginner paddleboarders, try this SUP lesson which takes you onto the beautiful Thetis Lake — our favorite lake in all of Victoria! During this beginner-friendly activity, you’ll learn basic paddleboarding techniques while exploring the spectacular waters of Lower and Upper Thetis Lake. It’s a blast!

Prefer kayaking? Check out this 3-hour Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour . Paddle around the downtown waters, getting to see landmarks like the Fairmont Empress and BC Parliament Buildings from a different perspective. Your guide will safely navigate you through the harbour’s marine traffic, while providing insight on the historic sights along the way.

Have your own gear? Here’s a list of the best SUP spots in Victoria (these are also great for kayakers)!

Book a Thetis Lake SUP Lesson Here!

Book a victoria harbour kayak tour here, 32. dallas road waterfront & the breakwater.

Some of Victoria’s most beautiful coastline is found along Dallas Road. If you spend an afternoon here, you’ll be sure to agree!

Dallas Road follows along the southern edge of Victoria. The waterfront walkway along the street features incredible coastal views and the distant Olympic Mountains over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Walking or jogging the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail is the best way to enjoy the ocean vistas. This 4-km long trail stretches from Fisherman’s Wharf all the way to the Ross Bay Cemetery. Accessible and dog-friendly, the path is super walkable with no real elevation but features some really spectacular views!

Along the way, you’ll pass by all kinds of beautiful coastal parks, including the massive Beacon Hill Park (look for the tallest free-standing totem pole near Camas Circle), Holland Point Park, and Clover Point.

There are stairs near Cook Street that’ll take you down to the rocky Spiral Beach below Dallas Road, one of the most beautiful beaches in Victoria . Further down the road, you can also visit Ross Bay Beach near the cemetery.

For some of the best views, stroll over to the the Breakwater , a 762-meter long ocean walkway extending off Dallas Road. It has a cute lighthouse at the end and is great for watching boats go by and looking for seals!

33. Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Sooke Potholes Regional Park is among our top favorite swimming spots in Victoria. If you’re visiting Victoria in summer, swimming in the potholes is one of the best things to do!

The Sooke Potholes are a series of natural swimming pools along the Sooke River, about 45-minutes outside of Victoria. Carved into the rock by the cascading waters of the Sooke River, the potholes make for great swimming spots. Some thrill-seeking people even cliff jump here!

While the Sooke Potholes aren’t as chilly as the Pacific Ocean, we do find the river is colder than lakes like Thetis. On a hot day, you get used to the water though!

The main beaches along the river include Crescent (the most popular), Sand Pebble, Skipping Rock, Ripple Rock, and Hideaway Beaches. You’ll find people spread out all along the river, though.

Swimming isn’t the only thing to do here though. The riverside rocks are great for sunbathing, the shallows are great for wading, and you can walk the trail all along the Sooke River!

The park also borders the Sea to Sea Regional Park, which is great for hiking. Mary Vine Creek Waterfall is quite beautiful after a good rain and if you go just a bit further, Peden Lake is also quite scenic.

On a hot summer’s day, make sure to arrive at the Sooke Potholes Regional Park early. The parking lot gets quite busy! Parking is paid but if you get a season’s pass, it covers parking at both the Sooke Potholes and Thetis Lake Regional Parks.

34. Craft Breweries

Visiting one (or more) of the amazing craft breweries around Victoria is one of the best things to do in the city for beer lovers. There’s nothing better than tasting some of the local brews while enjoying the sun on an outdoor patio!

Home to the first brewpub in Canada, Victoria is a city with a rich brewing history and thriving craft beer scene. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample some of the best beer that Vancouver Island has to offer.

From small-batch sours flavored with locally-grown fruits to West Coast-inspired IPA beers, there’s a beer to suit every taste. Sometimes the breweries even feature more unique brews, like kelp beer!

If you’re visiting at the right time, Victoria also has a couple of craft beer-focused festivals, including the Great Canadian Beer Festival and Victoria Beer Week . These events gather people from all over to celebrate the city’s craft beer culture.

35. The Gorge Waterway

The Gorge Waterway (known as the Gorge by locals) is the beautiful tidal inlet that starts at the Selkirk Trestle in the Victoria Harbour and extends north all the way to Portage Inlet.

This is a must-see destination for travelers looking for the best things to do in Victoria and it won’t take you long to understand why either! The Gorge is quite beautiful and peaceful.

Much of the Gorge can be enjoyed on foot. We usually like to start our walk at Saanich Gorge Park and then heading to Tillicum Bridge to see the Reversing Falls rapids.

After, we either continue onward along the Gorge Waterway Park Path to Craigflower-Kosapsom Park. Or, you can cross Tillicum Bridge to walk to Esquimalt Gorge Park, where you’ll find a peaceful Japanese garden!

While walking is an option, the best way to explore the Gorge is by stand-up paddleboard or kayak. You’ll be able to see much more of the waterway, especially Portage Inlet!

36. Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails are two of the best ways to explore the beauty of Victoria by bike.

These trails shouldn’t be missed! Both are mostly flat, paved, and accessible for bikers of all levels. The trails are multi-use so they’re also great for walking and running.

The Galloping Goose is a 55-kilometer trail stretching from Victoria all the way to Sooke. The trail offers stunning views of the city, with beautiful murals (some goose-themed ones!) along the way. The trail passes must-see spots like the Selkirk Trestle across the Gorge Waterway, Thetis Lake, Hatley Castle, and Sooke Potholes.

The Lochside Trail connects to the Galloping Goose at Switch Bridge and is a 29-kilometer north-south trail on the Saanich Peninsula. It runs from downtown Victoria to Swartz Bay, winding through rural landscapes along the way. Points of interest along the way include Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, Mount Douglas Park, and the town of Sidney.

Don’t want to venture out on your own? Try this guided Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour . While it doesn’t take you on the Lochside or Galloping Goose Regional Trails, this bike tour will take you past some other landmarks around the city, like Craigdarroch Castle and Cook Street Village.

Book the Castles and Neighborhoods Bike Tour Here!

Top travel tips & resources for victoria, bc.

• Travel Insurance – If you’re travelling internationally, travel insurance is a must for any trip. Being covered by insurance is especially important when you’re going to an adventure-filled place like British Columbia. If you injure yourself while adventuring, you want to have insurance! We recommend using SafetyWing for international travel insurance. They are affordable and have great policies for travellers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Also, SafetyWing provides COVID-19 coverage, which many other insurance companies don’t cover.
• Car Rental – We find the best deal on vehicle rental prices using RentalCars.com . They compare the prices for different car rental companies so you can find the best deals out there!
• Accommodations – We prefer booking all of our hotels, hostels, and other accommodations through Booking.com because they have a flexible cancellation policy. Also, there are lots of different options on their platform, from hotels to vacation homes. Alternatively, Expedia and Hotels.com are good for booking accommodations. For vacation home rentals, VRBO is an excellent choice (they have lower fees than Airbnb, many of the same properties, and are more ethical).
• Flights – You’ll find many good flight deals on Skyscanner or Google Flights. You can book flights through these websites and they’ll help you find the best prices and flight times. If you fly at less popular times (e.g. mid-week or red-eye flights), you can also save some money.
• Tours – Get the most out of your vacation by taking a guided tour! This is a great way to see the city, adventure to exciting new locations, and learn about the local culture. Viator or GetYourGuide are great options for booking tours.

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• 9 Wheelchair Accessible Beaches around Victoria, BC
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Hey, I'm Nicole! I've travelled all over the world but my favorite place is British Columbia. I've lived in Victoria, BC since 2019 and spend most of my free time travelling around BC. My goal is to explore as much of this beautiful province as possible. Along the way I'll be sharing travel tips with you!

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Victoria, BC

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is sheltered by the mountains of the Olympic Peninsula and influenced by the warm North Pacific current, creating the mildest climate in Canada. It's one of the warmest places in Canada in winter , and it's a popular tourist destination for Canadians and international travelers, with things to do year-round.

The capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a small city with a friendly small-town atmosphere. With no land connection to mainland Canada, it also has a slightly remote feel. And due to the size – a population of less than 100,000 – getting around is quick and easy, and much of the sightseeing can be done on foot.

Some of the things to see include the parks and gardens, festooned with foliage and flowers throughout the year. The charming city center is set around the scenic Inner Harbour , which retains its Victorian heritage buildings and atmosphere. In the Empress Hotel, people still gather for traditional afternoon tea.

Victoria is one of the key highlights of Vancouver Island . Ferries make it an easy day trip from Vancouver, but regular flights connecting through Vancouver also make it a perfect getaway destination from anywhere in North America. It's also a great place to kick off a trip to other parts of the island.

For ideas on places to visit, see our list of the top things to do in Victoria.

See also: Where to Stay in Victoria

1. Walk along the Inner Harbour

2. royal bc museum, 3. the butchart gardens, 4. fairmont empress hotel, 5. parliament buildings, 6. shop or dine at market square, 7. wander through cook street village, 8. beacon hill park, 9. craigdarroch castle, 10. hiking trails and scenic areas, 11. fort rodd hill national historic site, 12. hatley park national historic site, 13. victoria butterfly gardens, 14. victoria bug zoo, 15. chinatown and fan tan alley, 16. maritime museum of british columbia, where to stay in victoria for sightseeing, map of things to do in victoria, bc, victoria - climate chart.

Victoria's scenic Inner Harbour is the main attraction and the best starting point for tourists. Many of the city's top sights are located either on the harbor or within easy walking distance. You can stroll along the waterfront, pass by the Empress Hotel and Parliament buildings, watch street buskers perform on sunny days, or stop in at restaurant for a bite to eat.

If you are looking for something to do in Victoria, this is a good place to come. Boat tours leave from the docks, and horse-drawn carriages ply the streets above. Festivals and other events frequently take place in this area and there is always plenty of activity.

For travelers without their own vehicle, or for those who simply want to park the car for a while, staying on the harbor is the best idea. While the Fairmont Empress is the most obvious choice for location, the Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort is another great option in a little less busy area.

The Inner Harbour is also where float planes land and take off, with service to Vancouver and Washington state.

British Columbia's provincial museum and archives is one of the best museums of natural and cultural history in Canada, with many three-dimensional displays offering a feast of sights, smells, and sounds.

Walk through a rainforest, view animals on West Coast beaches and in tidal wetlands, sit among aboriginal ceremonial poles and masks, walk through a big house, and learn of First Nations people's struggles after European settlement. Other interactive features include a replica HMS Discovery - the ship that brought Captain Vancouver to these shores, and a street of shops in Old Town.

Outside, Thunderbird Park is home to traditionally carved memorial and house poles. Nearby, the small mid-19th century, Helmcken House is the oldest residence in British Columbia still standing on its original site. The house once belonged to J.S. Helmcken, a practicing doctor and local politician. He campaigned vigorously for the then British colony of Victoria and British Columbia to join the newly established confederation of Canada.

Note that big plans were in place to completely demolish and rebuild the museum starting in 2022, however, due to the massive cost the project was shelved. However, in anticipation of the project many of the displays were put into storage. The museum is slowly rebuilding the dismantled exhibits but it will be quite some time before it's back to normal.

The museum is situated midway between the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Address: 675 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

Although the garden is a short drive from downtown Victoria, it is one of the premier tourist attractions in the area and worth taking the time to see. It's also a place you can visit several times a year to see the changes throughout the seasons. Even in winter, the gardens are a lovely sight, with an outdoor skating rink and a fabulous display of lights around Christmas.

The garden was started in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, wife of a wealthy quarry owner. She laid out a fragrant garden in this abandoned limestone quarry. Flourishing, not least because of the mild climate, the gardens have since been developed into a 20-hectare horticultural tour de force without rival in Canada.

The Italian garden, rose garden, Japanese garden, and sunken garden are among the loveliest. Open spaces among the pools, fountains, and the many exotic plants are used for artistic and musical performances.

To reach The Butchart Gardens, follow Highway 17A north for 22 kilometers to Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula.

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, British Columbia

Official site: http://www.butchartgardens.com/

Built in 1908 for Canadian Pacific, like the Château Frontenac in Québec City, the Fairmont Empress Hotel on the Inner Harbour is one of Victoria's best-loved landmarks. This historic hotel has hosted celebrities and famous people throughout the decades, including members of the British Monarchy.

Architect Francis M. Rattenbury designed the Empress, and entering the vast lobby of this luxurious hotel is like journeying back in time to before the First World War.

Enjoying Afternoon Tea , served with great style in the Lobby Lounge, is one of the most popular things to do if you are visiting the city. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to guarantee a spot.

An extension on the north side of the Empress Hotel houses a collection of several dozen scenes in miniature at Miniature World . The models of historical events, castles, and dollhouses captivate young and old alike.

Address: 721 Government Street, Victoria

Dominating the south side of the Inner Harbour is the imposing seat of British Columbia's provincial government, the Parliament Buildings. Designed by Yorkshire architect Francis M. Rattenbury and erected in 1897, the imposing stone buildings have neat, orderly gardens and are very attractive in appearance – especially in the evening when lit by festoons of lights.

Perched high above the massive dome is a gilded statue of Captain George Vancouver (1757-98), who accomplished the first circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. Figures of famous personalities from the province embellish the façade. A large statue of Queen Victoria surveys the Inner Harbour from the terrace.

Highlights of a visit include an excellent overview of the history of British Columbia, details on the architectural design, and an education on the parliamentary system. Not to be missed are the impressive Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee stained-glass windows. Another must see is the Memorial Rotunda , with its intricately painted walls and dome.

If parliament is sitting, members of the public are welcome to observe the session from the visitors' gallery.

If you work up an appetite while visiting, consider an elegant, yet understated breakfast or lunch at the Parliamentary Dining Room .

An alternative to touring the inside of the Parliament Buildings is a pleasant stroll around the grounds. Top sights include the Front Fountain, Knowledge Totem Pole, and the giant Sequoia Tree. In the spring and summer, stroll in behind the buildings and take in the sights and smells of the Premier's Rose Garden .

Address: 501 Belleville Street, Victoria, British Columbia

Official site: https://www.leg.bc.ca/learn-about-us/visiting-the-legislature

One of Victoria's most unique shopping areas is Market Square. Hidden from view from the street, the market is an open-air area behind wonderfully restored historical buildings. Patios line the multileveled area, and the sunny main square hosts a regular roster of performances.

Market Square is a mix of over 30 retailers consisting of one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and services. Wander around and pop into a few places to find local works of art, jewelry, crafts, and one of kind items. The pleasant vibe and comfortable environment will likely make you want to linger. Grabbing a bite at one of the innovative restaurants is a great way to satisfy that craving.

Market Square has three main entrances: Johnson, Pandora, and Store streets. Across Johnson Street and down a small cobblestone alley is the entrance to Il Terrazzo restaurant , one of Victoria's most enduring and popular dining establishments.

One of the trendiest areas of Victoria is Cook Street Village. Just down the street from Beacon Hill Park, this funky little area has good restaurants and nice shops. The main area is compact and runs from Oliphant Avenue for three blocks to Oscar Street.

For most of the year, restaurants have patios filled with patrons soaking up the vibe and staying busy by undertaking some serious people watching. Food trucks have their own little area complete with picnic tables under a large tree.

A very pleasant afternoon can be had by grabbing lunch on a patio, exploring the village, and then walking 10 minutes down Cook Street to the Dallas Road Waterfront Trail . This route stretches for miles, and the views across the Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains on a clear day are sublime.

Green and well tended, Beacon Hill Park is a favorite outdoor area close to the city center. From its highest point, lovely views look across Juan de Fuca Strait to the snowy peaks of the Olympic Peninsula .

The park is home to huge trees, gardens, and ponds. Walking trails lead through the park to quiet benches and areas for peaceful relaxation. You can see a variety of wildlife here, from deer to peacocks, ducks, and occasionally even an otter. Paths also lead to high points with beautiful views out over the ocean and mountains.

Other features in the park include recreational areas for baseball, tennis, cricket, and lawn bowling. Two water parks provide summer fun for kids.

A milestone on the southwest edge of the park, called Mile 0 , marks the western end of the continent-spanning Trans-Canada Highway . Nearby is a statue of Terry Fox, who attempted to run across Canada in 1980 to raise money for cancer research.

Address: 100 Cook Street, Victoria

Victoria's fairy-tale mansion, Craigdarroch Castle, is considered a gem of Victorian architecture and is a National Historic Site. Immigrant Scottish entrepreneur Robert Dunsmuir, who made his fortune in coal mining, commissioned the home in the 1880s but died before his mansion was completed. Family drama around the home ensued.

The house is situated in a particularly affluent area of Victoria. Elegant Rockland centers on Rockland Avenue, which is lined with grand heritage homes including Government House - the official residence of Her Majesty's representative in British Columbia. The house is open to the public but is not equipped with ramps or elevators.

Address: 1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria

Official site: http://thecastle.ca/

Victoria is one of the most scenic cities in Canada, and if you want to fully appreciate some of the views, head for the parks and tackle some local hiking trails . Many of these are short and can be done in a half-day or a couple of hours.

For coastal scenery, the Coastal Trail in Sooke is a wonderful seaside trail looking out to the distant mountains. The Mount Work hiking trail is another great hiking trail and good workout, leading to a highpoint with views to the Olympic Mountains and down Sanich Inlet.

For a little history, check out the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail in Goldstream Provincial Park , and along the way, stop at Niagara Falls. Or, for something a little easier, try the Kinsol Trestle Bridge Trail , perfect for all abilities.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails on Vancouver Island

The gun batteries at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, about 13 kilometers west of Victoria, used to guard the sheltered waters of Esquimalt Harbour, once a British naval base. The guns were in service from 1895 to 1956. Today, the well-preserved fortress can be visited.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site is a perfect family outing when visiting Victoria. The fort has lots of interesting hideouts for kids to explore, guns to climb on, and the seashore out front usually has something interesting washed up. From the beach, walk about 10 minutes out to the point and Fisgard Lighthouse . This iconic Victoria photo spot was the first light on the west coast of Canada.

If you truly want to make your family visit an adventure, consider camping overnight at one of the fully self-contained oTENTik units.

Address: 603 Fort Rodd Hill Road, Victoria

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill

Hatley Park National Historic Site consists of Hatley Castle, built in 1908 by former British Columbia Premier and coal baron, James Dunsmuir. This Edwardian estate also showcases Japanese, Italian, and rose gardens.

The castle has also been featured in several films. Most famously, it was a filming location in the X Men movie series , as the School for Gifted Youngsters run by Professor Xavier.

The building today houses the administrative office of Royal Roads University , but is open to the public. You can choose to walk through the gardens or take a guided tour of the castle.

Address: 2005 Sooke Road, Victoria

Official site: http://hatleypark.ca/

Located near Butchart Gardens, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens feature much more than just butterflies. These indoor tropical gardens house up to 75 species of exotic butterflies and moths, plus tropical birds, fish, and reptiles. In 2017, the Butterfly Gardens also opened an Insectarium .

Ducks, flamingos, parrots, tortoises, frogs, and iguanas wander around the jungle environment. This interesting facility, which incorporates waterfalls, trees, and flowers, makes for a wonderful escape on a cool winter day and is the best place to visit in Victoria for an indoor hit of nature.

Address: 1461 Benvenuto Ave, Central Saanich

Official site: http://www.butterflygardens.com/

This may not be for everyone, but if you want to explore the wonderful world of bugs, or perhaps attempt to get over your fear of spiders, this is the place to visit. Enter a world of insects and spiders at the Victoria Bug Zoo.

The facility has a range of bugs from all over the world, many of which you can hold and interact with. The critter-focused attraction is located beside the Magnolia Hotel, easily walkable from Victoria's Inner Harbour.

Address: 631 Courtney Street, Victoria

Official site: http://www.victoriabugzoo.ca/

Adjoining the Old Town is Victoria's small, but nevertheless charming, Chinatown. Entered through a conspicuous gate, it occupies just two blocks close to Government Street and Fisgard Street. A century ago, 8000 people lived in the Chinese quarter. In 1971, it became a designated historic district.

One of the favorite sightseeing stops in Chinatown is the exceedingly narrow Fan Tan Alley . Located about two thirds of the way up Fisgard street as you head north to Government Street, the easy-to-miss entrance is on the right-hand side. The alley runs for a full city block from Fisgard street to Pandora street.

Down this little alley you'll find a treasure trove of interesting shops and restaurants. Photographers will be in their element trying to capture the ideal shot, considering the unique angles and tricky lighting.

If you head south of Chinatown, cross Store street, and turn right towards the water on Swift street, you'll find a delightful area of old buildings and restaurants with water-view patios. A short waterfront walkway runs along the seashore, and it's from here that many tour boats depart.

If you head south and turn left, you'll come to the brand new Johnson Street bridge. This futuristic, white bridge is a new addition to the Victoria waterfront and is especially beguiling at night when it's lit up in a soft blue color.

The Maritime Museum of British Columbia moved locations, and today is in a holding pattern until a new facility can be built in the next few years. Many of the 35,000 pieces are in storage, however, a small 3,000-square-foot temporary display location has some interesting things on display.

One of the exhibits is the SS Princess Sophia . Created with exquisite attention to detail, this scale model of the ship is fascinating to look at. Another fun exhibit for all members of the family is knot tying. Try your luck at creating some of the most common maritime knots - it's more difficult than you might imagine!

Address: 634 Humboldt Street, Victoria

Official site: http://mmbc.bc.ca/

For a conveniently located hotel in Victoria, we recommend these properties:

• Abigail's Hotel : If you're looking for charming and romantic, this 1930s Tudor mansion is the place. Enjoy four-star luxury, romantic four-poster beds, wood-burning fireplaces, and free breakfast and appetizers at this adults-only hotel .
• Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel : This mid-range waterfront hotel features harbor views, spacious suites with full kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and is set in a fantastic location.
• Best Western Plus Inner Harbour : For budget-minded travelers looking for affordable rates without compromising on location, the Best Western is a good choice. The hotel is located just one block in from the harbor and comes with an outdoor heated pool, whirlpool and sauna, and hot breakfast.
• Capital City Center Hotel : This pleasant budget hotel, within walking distance to the harbor area, features an outdoor seasonal pool, comfortable beds, and 24-hour concierge.

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Top Reasons to Go to Victoria

The journey here: Yup, getting here is one of the best things about Victoria. Whether by ferry meandering past the Gulf or San Juan islands, by floatplane (try to travel at least one leg this way), or on a whale-watching boat, getting to Victoria is a memorable experience.

Spend an afternoon at the Butchart Gardens: Nearly a million annual visitors can't be wrong—these lavish gardens north of town truly live up to the hype.

Tour the Royal British Columbia Museum: One of Canada's best regional museums warrants repeat visits just to take in the myriad displays and exhibits.

Embark on a whale-watching cruise: It's an amazing way to view these magnificent animals in the wild.

Traverse the Inner Harbour via a ferry boat: The tiny foot-passenger ferries zipping across the Inner Harbour afford passengers a new perspective of the city center.

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Top Things To Do in Victoria

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, Canada, is a well-known tourist destination popular for its charming harbour, beautiful parks, gardens, and interesting history. It’s an easy day trip from Vancouver but you should definitely plan to spend a few days exploring this scenic spot.

The local travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations help visitors to Canada plan personalized vacations. We love Victoria and highly recommend including it in your plans.  

In this comprehensive guide, we let you in on the best things to do in Victoria, BC, so you can craft your perfect Canadian itinerary. 

Reasons to Visit Victoria

Why choose Victoria, BC as a stop on your next trip? For a start, the city's mild weather allows for outdoor activities all year round.

Although the most ideal time to visit is from March to May and September to November, Victoria is still a destination that caters to every season: 

• Visitors in the spring can enjoy beautiful gardens, thanks to Victoria's ideal conditions for flowers. It’s known as a garden city, with lots of blooms.  
• If you arrive in the summer, prepare for fun outdoor activities. This season is also great for whale watchers. 
• Don't worry if you can't make it in the prime seasons — there's also plenty to do in the quieter off-season. You might even catch the magical winter festivities.

No matter when you visit, there are numerous things to do in Victoria for a memorable stay. 

[ Explore: Best Train Trips in Canada ]

Beautiful parks, gardens, and ocean views.

The city of Victoria offers a haven for nature lovers with its beautiful parks and gardens, and stunning ocean views. You're given ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and sightseeing, from stunning vistas to wildlife viewing.

1. Beacon Hill Park

Located right near the city center, Beacon Hill Park is a must-visit. This park is well-known for its beautiful gardens, walking trails, and recreational areas. It's also a hotspot for wildlife sightings. 

Don't miss the water parks and recognizable landmarks such as Mile 0 and the Terry Fox statue. While there, be sure to take in the breathtaking views across Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Peninsula. 

2. Goldstream Provincial Park

Another gem near Victoria is Goldstream Provincial Park. As a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, you have multiple camping and hiking opportunities at your disposal. 

One of its extraordinary spectacles is the annual salmon spawning run, where you observe different species of Pacific salmon.  

Another scenic beauty you can experience at Goldstream Provincial Park is the Goldstream Trestle Bridge and the picturesque waterfalls.

3. Mount Douglas Park

Mount Douglas Park is the largest urban forest on the Saanich Peninsula, covering 188 hectares. With 21 kilometers of scenic hiking trails available, there's something for everyone, regardless of your hiking experience. 

Not only do these trails provide exercise, but you can experience breathtaking 360-degree scenic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes from the top.

4. Hatley Castle Gardens

Hatley Castle Gardens is more than just a site of beauty; it carries considerable historical significance. Built in 1908, the castle served as a dormitory and mess hall for the Royal Roads Military College before transitioning to the public Royal Roads University. 

Known as a National Historic Site, Hatley Castle gives you a glimpse into the area's rich past, while enchanting you with its fairytale charm. And if you're a movie buff you might also recognize it as the filming location for X-Men and Deadpool! 

While the gardens are free to explore, access to the castle's interior requires a guided tour.

5. Butchart Gardens

This world-renown attraction is a horticultural tour-de-force spanning 20 hectares — make sure this garden is part of your itinerary when you get to Victoria. 

Established by Jennie Butchart in 1904, it has five different gardens — the Italian garden, the Rose garden, the Japanese garden, the Mediterranean garden, and the visually striking Sunken garden. 

The gardens also have a stage for artistic and musical performances, enhancing the atmosphere and giving you a memorable experience. 

To learn more about the gardens, visit the Butchart Gardens official website ( 1 ).

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6. thunderbird park.

Nestled next to the Royal BC Museum in Victoria, Thunderbird Park is a quiet, tree-lined green space that offers more than just beautiful landscapes. It also houses a collection of First Nation monuments, including vibrant totem poles. 

The park's distinctive features include the colorful Wawadit'la and an on-site carving studio creating replicas of ancient totems. It's a perfect spot if you yearn for relaxation, appreciation of native art, and experiencing history.

Museums and Historical Sights

In Victoria, BC, numerous museums and historical sights allow you to experience the city's rich history. It boasts architectural treasures, art, and cultural life rooted in its history, as demonstrated by the following iconic landmarks.

1. Victoria Parliament Buildings

The Victoria Parliament Buildings hold an important place in Victoria's cultural heritage. If you appreciate design, then you will enjoy the buildings' exquisite architecture and their historical significance. 

In front of the buildings stands a statue of Queen Victoria, a significant landmark in Victoria, BC, which commemorates the city's connection to its namesake.

2. Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a noteworthy National Historic Site displaying exceptional Victorian architecture in Victoria, BC. The castle was built in the 1880s by wealthy coal entrepreneur Robert Dunsmuir and is now open to you for self-guided tours. 

This historical attraction allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history of the region. You can find Craigdarroch Castle at 1050 Joan Crescent, with operating hours from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

3. Fan Tan Alley

Located in Victoria's Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley is a must-see for visitors looking for a unique and lively experience. This intriguing lane is famous for being one of Canada's narrowest streets. Victoria's Chinatown is an important cultural hub in the city, bustling with history, architecture, and color. 

When wandering through Fan Tan Alley, take a moment to appreciate its red brick walls and the appealing boutique shops that line the alley. While you're there, don't forget to visit Kid Sister, a popular homemade ice cream shop that will add a sweet touch to your experience.

4. Emily Carr Statue on Government Street

If you're strolling down Government Street in Victoria, you'll inevitably come across the thought-provoking statue of Emily Carr. 

As a renowned Canadian artist and writer, Carr made a lasting impact on the country's cultural landscape with her vivid representations of indigenous peoples and the breathtaking West Coast scenery. Take a moment to admire this stunning monument, which is a tribute to Carr's remarkable talent and cultural influence.

5. Fisherman's Wharf

Just around the bend from Victoria's Inner Harbour, Fisherman's Wharf welcomes you with colourful float homes, local seafood eateries, and unique shops. 

Sample some of the freshest seafood the city has to offer and observe the local seals who love to bask here. Fisherman's Wharf, with its lively atmosphere and scenic bay views, is truly an experience you wouldn't want to miss.

6. Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum, situated in downtown Victoria, houses a world-class collection of cultural artifacts and natural specimens. 

Permanent exhibits, such as the Natural History Gallery and the First Peoples Gallery, resonate with the museum's dedication to British Columbia's rich history. The museum also hosts notable temporary exhibitions, keeping the content fresh and exciting for return visits. 

Make sure to add the Royal BC Museum to your itinerary for a deep dive into the province's storied past.

7. Imax Theatre Victoria

When you're in Victoria, BC, you absolutely can't miss a visit to Imax Theatre Victoria. Known for its immersive movie experience, the centre features a giant screen and state-of-the-art technology that truly brings visuals to life. 

You'll find everything here from mesmerizing nature films to educational content that gets you thinking. Take your movie-watching experience to new heights with Imax Theatre Victoria.

Unique Experiences and Activities

Victoria, BC, is more than just beautiful landscapes and rich history. The city also invites you to partake in unique experiences and adventurous activities only found in this corner of the world.

1. Whale Watching

Whale watching is a popular activity in the area, with multiple local operators providing tours to see these amazing marine animals up close. Whether you spot a group of Orcas or a Humpback making a splash, these tours provide memorable experiences for all ages.

2. Miniature World

At Miniature World, you'll find an intriguing collection of tiny, detailed displays. Explore cities, castles, and fairy tale scenes all in miniature form. It's an excellent attraction for anyone with an interest in craftsmanship and imagination.

3. Malahat Skywalk

For an incredible view of the surrounding area, visit the Malahat Skywalk. This elevated walkway and spiral tower lets you take in some of the most breathtaking vistas of the surrounding forest, mountains, and the distant sparkle of the Salish Sea.

4. Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Step into a tropical paradise at the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Filled with thousands of tropical butterflies and exotic plants, this indoor garden also houses various tropical birds and fishes. It's a great spot to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

5. Exploring Beyond the City

Victoria, BC is as an ideal base to explore the surrounding areas — with an abundance of outdoor activities and charming destinations just a stone's throw away.

6. Kayaking and Sailing

Take advantage of the region's beautiful waterfront by indulging in water sports like kayaking and sailing. A variety of rental and tour options are available for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. 

Kayak tours typically range from around $85 while rentals start from $50 depending on how long you rent it for. Sailing tours can vary widely in price depending on the length and type of tour but expect to pay around $125 and up per person.

7. Nearby Hikes

The region around Victoria is home to numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. Some popular options include: 

• Gowlland Tod Provincial Park:  With over 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) of trails varying in difficulty, this park offers scenic hiking amidst forests, meadows, and beautiful vistas. The Jocelyn Hill Trail Loop, 9.2 kilometres (5.7 miles) round trip with moderate difficulty, and McKenzie Bight Trail, 3.4 kilometres (2.1 miles) round trip with easy-moderate difficulty are two popular options. 
• East Sooke Regional Park:  This park features over 50 kilometres (31.1 miles) of trails, including a rugged 10-kilometre (6.2 miles) stretch along the coastal path known as the Coast Trail (difficult). However, there are also easier options like the Aylard Farm to Becher Bay Trail (6.8 kilometres/4.2 miles, easy). 
• Mount Finlayson:  A challenging 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) round trip with steep inclines but rewarding with panoramic views at the summit. This hike is considered difficult due to its elevation gain.

8. Day Trips to Nearby Islands

Victoria's coastline offers excellent access to explore the nearby islands on day trips. 

Hop on a ferry or join a guided tour to discover the unique charm and natural beauty of destinations such as Salt Spring Island, Sooke, and Mayne Island. Each island offers its own attractions, including local markets, art galleries, and pristine wilderness. 

With so many adventures waiting just outside the city limits, Victoria, BC, is a gateway to a world of exhilarating experiences.

Travel Tip: Add a wellness experience

This West Coast oasis offers lots of opportunities for relaxation and pampering. Spend time in the rainforest, take a yoga class, get a massage, or visit HAVN, the floating Nordic spa in the Inner Harbour, for a sauna and cold plunge.

Historical Sites and Entertainment

Victoria, BC, showcases a rich history and a vibrant line-up of entertainment options to keep you engaged throughout your visit.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

At the Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, you can experience a slice of Canadian history. This coastal artillery fort, built in the 1890s, provides a glimpse into the past and Canada's role in the British Empire's defense. 

Explore the well-preserved grounds, featuring original buildings, bunkers, and gun batteries. The site also includes the Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest one on the West Coast of Canada.

Entertainment and Tours

Victoria presents a variety of entertainment avenues and tours for diverse tastes. Some popular options include: 

• Victoria Symphony:  Enjoy classical music performances. 
• Belfry Theatre:  Catch contemporary plays in a beautifully restored church venue. 
• Victoria Pedicab Company:  Discover the city on a fun pedicab ride with a knowledgeable local guide. 
• Food Tours:  Satisfy your taste buds while discovering local culinary delights. 
• Pub Crawl:  Take in the vibrant nightlife scene while hopping across Victoria's unique pubs. 

Nighttime in Victoria

As the sun sets, Victoria comes alive with various nighttime activities and entertainment options: 

• Live Music:  Check out "Hermann's Jazz Club" for great jazz, and "Upstairs Cabaret" for a fun mix of live bands and DJ sets. 
• Nightclubs:  Dance the night away at high-energy clubs like "Lucky Bar" and "Distrikt". 
• Breweries:  Victoria is famous for its craft beer scene. Local breweries such as "Phillips Brewing & Malting Co." and "Vancouver Island Brewing" offer brewery tours and tastings. 

For a more relaxed evening, take a stroll along the Inner Harbour, where you can enjoy illuminated Parliament Buildings and beautiful water reflections. 

Historic, exciting, and uniquely charming, Victoria, BC, holds surprises for its visitors, both during the day as well as after dark.

Other Attractions and Activities

There's never a dull moment in Victoria, BC—with a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all ages and interests.

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

Experience historical art as well as contemporary art at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. You'll find yourself marvelling at over 20,000 masterpieces, with highlights ranging from local Canadian creations to grand Asian collections. 

Don't forget to take a moment in the serene Asian garden, where you'll find a stunning Shinto shrine — an authentic testament to Victoria's diverse cultural fabric.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you're travelling with the little ones, Victoria has you covered. The city is packed with interactive museums, regularly scheduled kids' festivals, zoos, and wildlife parks that bring you and your family closer to nature. 

A stand-out favourite is the Melbourne Museum, packed with child-friendly exhibits guaranteed to spark your kids' curiosity. Or why not try meeting some of Australia's unique creatures at the Melbourne Zoo or the Healesville Sanctuary? Family adventure is never more than a stone's throw away!

Travle Tip: Look for wildlife

This vibrant city has an active Inner Harbour that is home to many creatures, including harbour seals, river otters, and many bird species. Occasionally a pod of orcas will even venture close to the shores.

Culinary Adventures: Food and Drink

Victoria, BC's culinary scene, is as diverse and exciting as its sights. Here are some must-try foodie activities to indulge in during your visit.

1. Afternoon Tea

Tradition comes alive with afternoon tea—a beloved Victoria experience. Feel like royalty at the iconic Fairmont Empress, or sip tranquility in the beautiful surroundings of the Abkhazi Garden and The Butchart Gardens. Every cup comes with a side of delectable pastries and a feeling of serene luxury.

2. Tour Craft Breweries

Here's a title Victoria is proud of— 'the cradle of the craft beer revolution.' Pint enthusiasts cannot pass up a tour of local breweries where you can sample a variety of craft beers and get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. Popular stops include Phillips Brewing & Malting Co., Vancouver Island Brewing, and the older Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guesthouses. 

3. Brunch Scene

Start your day right with a visit to one of Victoria's many vibrant brunch spots. Make sure to try Jam Café, known for its generous, delicious servings, or the Blue Fox Cafe, where traditional breakfast gets a quirky twist. For those looking for healthier options, Nourish Kitchen and Café promises farm-to-table goodness that doesn't compromise on taste.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Before setting foot in Victoria, it's handy to know a few practical aspects of visiting this beautiful city. Here's some essential information about transportation and ways to travel on a budget.

Transportation in Victoria

Getting to Victoria: 

• Ferries:  BC Ferries offers frequent services from Vancouver (Tsawwassen terminal) to Victoria (Swartz Bay terminal) — taking approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. 
• Flights:  Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is well-connected to major Canadian cities, and some U.S destinations. Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Alaska Airlines offer regular flights. 
• Seaplanes:  Take a seaplane from Vancouver Harbour or Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Victoria Harbour. The approximate flight duration is 30-35 minutes, with companies like Harbour Air and Kenmore Air providing services. 

Getting around Victoria: 

• Public Transportation:  BC Transit operates an extensive system of buses that covers all major areas of the city. Fares are reasonable, and a day pass is also available. 
• Walking:  Victoria has many pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly around the Inner Harbour and downtown, making it easy to explore on foot. 
• Cycling:  With ample bike lanes and bike-friendly routes, you can rent a bike or use the bike-sharing program. 
• Car Rentals:  Numerous car rental agencies operate in the city, including major companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Renting a car is a great choice if you plan to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. 
• Taxis and Rideshares:  Taxis are easily accessible in Victoria, and rideshare services like Uber also operate in the city. 

Tips for Saving Money 

• Use public transportation or bicycles over taxis and car rentals. 
• Explore free or low-cost attractions, including the Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park, and Fisherman's Wharf. 
• Many museums offer discounted or "by donation" entry on certain days. 
• Plan your trip ahead to take advantage of seasonal deals and budget-friendly choices. 

Where to Stay and Where to Eat

Choosing where to stay and where to eat is an important part of any travel plan. In the seaside city of Victoria, you're spoiled for choice.

Accommodation Options

Victoria has accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. 

For a luxury stay, consider the Fairmont Empress, an iconic property overlooking the Inner Harbour. The Magnolia Hotel & Spa offers a boutique experience with elegant rooms and personalized service. 

Budget travelers can look at options like the Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza Hotel, known for its value for money and central location. 

Culinary Hotspots

From water-view fine dining restaurants like Il Terrazzo to quirky local gems like Blue Fox Cafe, Victoria's culinary scene won't disappoint. You can also enjoy sweeping views of the harbour at the Aura Waterfront Restaurant.

Don't Just Visit Victoria, Explore It

From its scenic harbours to the vibrant cultural scenes, and exciting culinary diversity, Victoria, BC indeed stands as a must-visit destination. 

But why stop there when the entire Canadian landscape calls for exploration? 

For a truly unforgettable journey, create your itinerary with the local travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is enough for victoria.

A 2 to 3-day trip should be sufficient to cover the main attractions of Victoria.

Is Victoria an expensive city?

While Victoria can be pricier compared to other Canadian cities, planning, and budget-friendly choices can make your trip affordable.

Is there a pass for multiple attractions in Victoria?

There currently isn't a single pass that covers multiple attractions in Victoria, BC, similar to some city passes available in other destinations. However, you might find combination tickets or bundled offers for specific attractions or activities.

Are there pet-friendly activities or attractions in Victoria?

Yes, Victoria is known for being a pet-friendly city, with many parks, trails, and even some restaurants and pubs welcoming pets.

About the author: Athena McKenzie is the Content Manager at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she has written about travel, design, arts and entertainment. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Zoomer Magazine, Elle Canada and...   Read more

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Victoria & Vancouver Island   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things To Do in Victoria & Vancouver Island

Updated February 12, 2021

Devote a day to Victoria's picturesque Inner Harbour . Here you'll find popular sites like the Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum , as well as cafes and restaurants boasting wonderful views of the water. After you've exhausted

• All Things To Do

Inner Harbour Inner Harbour free

The Inner Harbour is Victoria's primary tourist neighborhood. The harbor itself – home to various fishing boats and colorful floating homes – is framed by wide pedestrian streets, often frequented by street vendors and buskers. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the sidewalks and provide the perfect locale to savor an afternoon cup of tea while keeping your eyes peeled for whales playing in the open water. The Inner Harbour also hosts some of Victoria's most popular attractions, including the  Royal British Columbia Museum  and the  Parliament Buildings . If you're embarking on a boat or ferry tour, this is where you'll likely start your journey.

Although the majority of recent visitors recommended spending a few hours at the Inner Harbour for the view, some suggested devoting at least half a day as there is always something interesting to see and do. For an even more charming scene, return in the evening, when the Parliament Buildings are lit up. 

The Butchart Gardens The Butchart Gardens

These world-renowned gardens have impressed Victoria visitors since 1904. Resting on 55 acres about 15 miles north of the  Inner Harbour , Butchart Gardens were carefully constructed by Jennie Butchart on her husband's former limestone quarry. Today, more than 1 million people stop by each year to meander along the property's flower-lined paths, which contain more than 900 varities. Visit on a summer evening to see the gardens illuminated by colored lights and to enjoy some musical entertainment. If you're planning a summer visit and want to avoid the crowds, heed the advice of garden staff and stop by before 10:30 a.m. or after 3:30 p.m.

Travelers describe the gardens as incredibly beautiful with awesome views and recommend that you bring a camera. They also advised setting aside several hours to make the most of the experience. If you need a break, retreat to one of the three eateries located on-site. There is also a carousel and boat tours available on-site.

Parliament Buildings Parliament Buildings free

The British Columbia Parliament Buildings are hard to miss. These neo-baroque structures with their impressive blue dome face off against Victoria's famed Fairmont Empress Hotel and make an excellent backdrop for an Inner Harbour stroll, especially at night when the facade is dressed in lights. But if you want a closer look at the building (which dates back to 1898), the parliamentary process and the history of the province, many travelers recommend a tour, raving about the well-informed guides. Although you can take a self-guided tour, you should consider tagging along on a free guided tour, according to recent visitors.

If you happen to be here when Parliament is in session, consider sitting in on one of the Legislative Assembly debates. You'll find a schedule of discussion topics on the  Parliamentary Calendar . The Parliament Buildings are open every day during the summer from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On weekends, visitors must join a free public tour. During the winter, the buildings are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Complimentary guided tours run regularly throughout the day and last roughly 30 to 45 minutes. For more information, visit the British Columbia Parliament's visitor information  website .

Popular Tours

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Royal British Columbia Museum Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal British Columbia Museum offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the region's history and culture. Exhibits include tribal artifacts from the First Nations, natural history displays and even replicas of Colonial-era settlements. The museum also boasts an IMAX theater and rotating special exhibits.

Recent visitors said this museum is a must-see when in Victoria as it offers a far-reaching look at the region's geography and indigenous people. Reviewers also praised the museum's layout, which is situated in chronological order. Some reviewers even said this was one of "the best museums" they've ever visited. Plus, if you're hungry, don't miss the museum's year-long food truck festival, which takes places in the building's back courtyard.

Goldstream Provincial Park Goldstream Provincial Park free

Located about 11 miles northwest of the  Inner Harbour , Goldstream Provincial Park houses a stunning array of flora and abundant natural beauty across its nearly 1,000 acres. But the real reason to visit this public wildlife area is rather fishy: Spend some time by the Goldstream River from late fall to early winter, and you're bound to catch a glimpse of the annual salmon migration. Between October and December, chum, coho and chinook salmon can be seen leaping upstream to their ancestral spawning beds. The park's trails follow the river closely, allowing you to get a good look at the watery highway.

Before you make a beeline for the river, consider stopping first at the Goldstream Nature House. The center offers educational programs on the annual salmon migration and other exhibits and activities. And even if you're not planning a winter trip to Vancouver Island, recent travelers said the massive cedar trees, abandoned gold mine and rumbling waterfalls make the park a must-see attraction at any time of year. Reviewers also said you should plan to wear appropriate hiking clothes and shoes so you can fully explore the park (and make your way up to the highest point in Greater Victoria – Mount Finlayson). When you need a break, stop for a picnic.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Sitting on the eastern edge of Vancouver Island's Strathcona Provincial Park, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort is one of the region's most prominent ski areas. And it's easy to see why: The resort boasts 81 alpine runs and 1,657 feet of vertical drop. Couple that with an average 38 feet of annual snowfall and you've got a powder hound's paradise. Recent travelers who visited during ski season said the resort is small, but well-groomed and family-friendly, calling it a "gem."

Mount Washington is a year-round resort, so if you happen to miss ski season, you can take advantage of the area's many hiking and biking paths and gondola rides.

Fairmont Empress Fairmont Empress

Challenging the  Parliament Buildings  from across the  Inner Harbour  is the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel. Built in the early 20th century, the Empress is one of the region's oldest hotels. But while the interior decoration is worth a photo or two, the main reason to visit this colossal hotel (if you aren’t staying there) is for the tea. The Empress has been participating in this time-honored Victorian tradition since opening its doors, and according to travel experts and recent visitors, teatime continues to be a decadent affair here. (Fun fact: The tea served at the Empress is the hotel's own specially crafted brand.)

Although most Victoria visitors pass on high tea at the Empress due to its high price tag (around CA$78 or $61 per person), some visitors say that the experience is worth the money. If you're interested in experiencing more than just its famous tea service, consider staying at the  Fairmont Empress  while in Victoria, which lodgers love for its Old World feel. For more information, visit the hotel's  website .

Victoria Whale Watching Tours Victoria Whale Watching Tours

Though you may be able to spot whales from the ferry, you'll have the best chance of seeing them during an organized whale-watching tour. Plus, you'll benefit from knowledgeable guides who have access to the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, which sits on the southernmost part of Vancouver Island (and Canada) on the Pacific coast.

There are a variety of tours available – some more intimate than others – but most last three to four hours. Recent visitors raved about their experiences with Eagle Wing Tours and BC Whale Tours . Some reviewers said they lost count of the amount of whales they saw, while others were particularly impressed with the guides, who kept a respectful distance from the animals and provided a wealth of information to tour goers.

Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

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Victoria Whale Watching Tour on a Covered Vessel

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Whale Watching Tour in a Zodiac Boat in Victoria

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Cowichan Valley Cowichan Valley

British Columbia is peppered with vineyards. To snag a taste of BC vino (and maybe even a few bottles to bring home), spend a day or two in the Cowichan Valley – second only to the Okanagan as the province's highest producing wine region. Occupying the heart of Vancouver Island – roughly 35 miles northwest of Victoria – the Cowichan Valley is home to a variety of different wineries and tasting rooms. The best way to get a feel for this part of the island is to stop at several vineyards for a tasting. Or, to participate in the region's annual wine festival, plan to visit in late August.

But wine isn't the only reason to visit this beautiful stretch of Vancouver Island. The Cowichan Valley is also home to golf courses, art galleries and plenty of hiking terrain. Many travel experts also recommend bringing a bike so that you can cover more ground without confining yourself to the car. Recent visitors recommended the Cowichan Valley Trail for cycling and hiking.

Craigdarroch Castle Craigdarroch Castle

To sample the Victorian high life, head about a mile east of the  Inner Harbour  to Craigdarroch Castle, a National Historic Site. This impressive home was built in the late 1800s for coal tycoon Robert Dunsmuir. Although it's more of a mansion than a castle, it houses 39 rooms, each of which is decked out in furnishings from the turn of the 20th century. Another highlight are the more than 30 gorgeous stained glass windows, the majority of which illustrate floral themes.

Even if you aren't a big history buff, many previous visitors recommend stopping by Craigdarroch Castle for a glimpse into how the wealthy once lived, not to mention stunning views of downtown Victoria. The only downside among reviewers: The house doesn't have any ramps or elevators, making it difficult for visitors with mobility issues to tour the upper three floors of the castle.

Sooke Sooke free

This little community on the southern tip of Vancouver Island makes for a quaint and quiet alternative to Victoria. Sooke's sheltered harbor is filled with fishing boats rather than tourists, and its numerous parks provide a scenic backdrop for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Recent visitors enjoyed the East Sooke Regional Park, citing its beauty and peaceful setting. You'll also find an assortment of water activities here – including fishing, sailing and whale watching – thanks to the town's location on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

And just because it's a small town doesn't mean you won't get your culture fix: Sooke hosts a variety of shops, art galleries and several notable festivals like the  Sooke Fine Arts Show  in July and August.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens Victoria Butterfly Gardens

While you wouldn't normally relate Canada with the jungle, the tropical wetlands thrive in the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. As its name suggests, this indoor facility is home to thousands of butterflies spread across its 12,000 square feet. But they aren't the only critters: The gardens also host a variety of birds and fish, including flamingos and koi fish. You'll find all of these creatures mingling amid the flora, creating a vibrant, colorful atmosphere. What's more, the gardens also house an insectarium with insects and invertebrates from around the globe.

Recent visitors called the Victoria Butterfly Gardens fun and family-friendly, with great staff. Reviewers also said that there is more to see than just butterflies, such as frogs, flamingoes and bugs. A few travelers remarked on the gardens' humid setting, advising future visitors to wear layers.

Victoria Bug Zoo Victoria Bug Zoo

If you're traveling to Victoria with kids in tow (or even without), many recent visitors recommended a stop at the Victoria Bug Zoo. Located a block or so north of the  Inner Harbour , this fairly small facility is home to a large number of creepy crawlies. Here, you'll come face to face with gigantic walking sticks, furry tarantulas and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions.

Recent visitors raved about the zoo's employees, who are ready to answer any questions you may have about their six- and eight-legged friends. Plus, you can even hold some of the insects – a major point of praise for reviewers.

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Miniature World Miniature World

Miniature World continues to delight the young and the young at heart with its numerous tiny worlds. Sitting just a short walk from the  Inner Harbour , this interactive museum houses dozens of miniature displays and dioramas. Follow the model Canadian railway as it travels across the country or spend some time at the big top in the "Circus World" display. If you are a literary buff, you'll appreciate a glimpse of the world of Dickens, while time travel aficionados should check out the "Space 2201 A.D." display.

Many recent visitors praised the models' intricate details, and said to take your time as you take it all in. Reviewers said this was an excellent way to spend a few hours on a rainy day and a lot of fun for kids. 

BC Aviation Museum BC Aviation Museum

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West Coast Brewery Tours West Coast Brewery Tours

Beacon Hill Park Beacon Hill Park free

Explore More of Victoria & Vancouver Island

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A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Victoria BC Day Trip

One of the highlights of any visit to Canada is a Victoria BC day trip. Victoria is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, and its picturesque Inner Harbour and city center are easily explored by foot in just one day. If you use your time in Victoria wisely you can explore the city’s Indigenous, British and natural history, dine on some of Canada’s most delicious cuisine and visit one of the city’s top attractions… all without feeling rushed.

I consider myself to be a Victoria local because I lived here for more than ten years. While I was living in town, I worked at several of the biggest tourist attractions in Victoria and used my industry connections to have behind-the-scenes experiences at many other attractions too. Although I’ve now moved away, I still visit my friends and family in Victoria several times per year (I’m actually in Victoria as I write this guide, in autumn 2023).

I used my local knowledge and my years of experience helping other travelers plan their trips to Victoria to write this day trip guide. I hope it helps you plan your day in Victoria, and if you have any questions about what I’ve written here please don’t hesitate to comment at the bottom – I will respond as soon as possible!

How to Plan a Victoria BC Day Trip

Most of the famous tourist attractions in Victoria BC are clustered around the Inner Harbour area and the downtown core.  It’s very easy to explore this area by foot in about three hours, which makes a walking tour of Victoria the perfect way to start your day trip.

After you’ve walked around and seen the highlights, you’ll probably want to stop for lunch. I’ll recommend some of my favorite restaurants later in this guide.

After lunch, you’ll have the chance to get to know one of Victoria’s three most interesting attractions in more depth. Whether you’re traveling with kids, are passionate ecotourists or want to see one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, you’ll be able to end your one day in Victoria on an unforgettable note.

Things to See on a Victoria BC Day Trip (Morning)

Your day in Victoria is going to start with a self-guided walking tour of the Inner Harbour and Victoria’s historic downtown center. My recommended route follows a circular path, so you can start and end in the Inner Harbour area. Plan to spend about two to three hours walking, depending on how many stops you make en route.

#1 – The Parliament Buildings

The home of British Columbia’s provincial government, Victoria’s parliament buildings are one of the city’s most famous landmarks.  Construction on the buildings finished in 1897, about thirty years after British Columbia joined Canada.

There are several monuments and other sights on the grounds around the Legislature. Surely the most famous is the statue of Queen Victoria, front and center, but it’s also worth spotting the cenotaph (a memorial to the Unknown Soldier) and the Sir James Douglas Obelisk, which commemorates the province’s first premier.

To the west of the parliament buildings, just across Menzies Street, you’ll also find Confederation Garden Court. Here, an outdoor fountain and waterfall are backed by the Canadian coat of arms and the shields of each Canadian province or territory.

When the parliament buildings are open visitors are welcome to take a free self-guided tour inside. They also have free guided tours available most days (exact dates and times change each week depending on political goings-on). Check the BC Legislative Assembly’s website for details.

(I cheated and used a photo I took of the parliament buildings all lit up at night… I’m secretly trying to convince you to make your day trip to Victoria into a weekend!)

#2 – The Empress Hotel

In the 1800s the Canadian Pacific Railway was building a rail network across Canada and establishing their own line of grand hotels in the major cities en route. Although the train tracks didn’t extend all the way to Victoria (for obvious reasons), the CPR couldn’t imagine their portfolio without a waterfront property in Victoria. Thus, The Empress was born.

In the years since the hotel has hosted royals (including Will, Kate and Queen Elizabeth) and celebrities (from a young Shirley Temple to John Travola and Harrison Ford). It has its own myths and legends (many believe it’s haunted by the ghost of the hotel’s architect, Francis Rattenbury) and has served as a backdrop for Hollywood feature films.

Some parts of the hotel are open to the public, including the gift shops and the hotel gardens. If you’d like to see more, you could have high tea in the hotel lounge (see below) or turn your day trip into an overnight visit .

#3 – Thunderbird Park

While Victoria tends to be known for its many British influences, it’s extremely important for both locals and visitors to remember that Vancouver Island had a rich Indigenous history and culture long before Europeans colonized the region.

Thunderbird Park is located beside the Royal British Columbia Museum, between the parliament buildings and the Empress Hotel. This outdoor green space is home to the Mungo Martin House, named after a prolific Kwakwaka’wakw artist and carver.  When this house was opened in 1953, the event was celebrated by the first legal potlatch ceremony in over sixty years (as the Canadian government prohibited Indigenous people from practicing their culture and traditions). The grounds are also home to numerous totem poles – take a look and see which animal figures you can identify.

#4 – The Inner Harbour Causeway

Running along the waterfront, directly underneath both the parliament buildings and the Empress Hotel, you’ll find the Inner Harbour Causeway. As the Inner Harbour ceased to be a commercial and industrial port, and shifted towards being of more tourist importance, this pretty pedestrian area was added to turn the area into a social gathering spot.

There are some plaques and small monuments on the walls that line the causeway, but really you just want to walk down here to see if you can spot any seals in the water before strolling down to…

#5 – Victoria Harbour Ferries

Everyone in Victoria loves our little Harbour Ferries. The two main stops are here on the causeway and just west of the Inner Harbour at Fisherman’s Wharf (a community of floating houseboats and other local businesses). Upon request, they can also stop across the harbour in Songhees (you can walk back along a beautiful waterfront path) or down the water at the famous Red Fish Blue Fish restaurant (see below).

In the warmer months, the Victoria Harbour Ferries perform a “water ballet”. Several mornings per week, all of the ferries meet in front of the Steamship Terminal and perform a choreographed show on the water.  Check their website for dates and times (typically from April to September).

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#6 – Government Street

After exploring the Inner Harbour, you’ll want to walk north along pretty Government Street. This street is home to many of Victoria’s oldest shops, including the original locations of Rogers’ Chocolates and Murchies Tea & Coffee (more info on those below) and Munro’s Books. These three shops are beloved by both locals and tourists, and are definitely worth stopping inside as you are walking.

At the intersection of Government Street and View Street you’ll find two possible detours that might pique your interest: Trounce Alley on your right and Bastion Square on your left.

Trounce Alley is a small pedestrian street with quirky local shops and restaurants. The antique gaslights that illuminate the street at night are original, dating back 125 years.

Across the street (under the glass pyramid arch), Bastion Square lined with original 19th-century buildings, many of which are said to be haunted. Don’t worry – I promise it’s not spooky in the morning! This is where the city’s old courthouse was located, and it’s where you can now find Victoria’s Maritime Museum (closed for renovations at publication time). If you’re in Victoria in the summer, you can often find a street market here.

#7 – Chinatown

Follow Government Street north for a few more blocks until you reach Fisgard Street and the Gate of Harmonious Interest that marks the entrance to Victoria’s Chinatown. This is the oldest Chinatown in Canada and the second-oldest in all of North America (second only to San Francisco).

In Chinatown  you can find shops, restaurants and heritage sites like the Chinese Public School. A local institution, Don Mee Restaurant has been in operation for more than 80 years, and is known both for its iconic sign and its delicious dim sum. The Bubble Tea Place was the first cafe to introduce bubble tea to Victoria, and is now almost 25 years old.

If you’re traveling to Victoria BC with tweens, you can build excitement for your trip by reading Julie Lawson’s White Jade Tiger before your trip. This well-known Canadian young adult novel tells the story of Jasmine, a Chinese-Canadian teenager who finds a secret passage in Chinatown that allows her to step back in time to BC’s Gold Rush era.

#8 – Fan Tan Alley

On Fisgard Street, midway between Government Street and Wharf Street you’ll find Chinatown’s most famous landmark: Fan Tan Alley. Measuring only 90 centimeters (35 inches) across, this is the narrowest commercial street in North America.

A hundred years ago, Fan Tan Alley was known for its opium dens and gambling houses. As the police cracked down on those illegal activities the alley fell into disrepair, but local leaders worked to revitalize it in the 1980s and today it is one of the province’s most-visited attractions. Recently, Vancouver’s Chinese Canadian Museum opened a satellite museum here in the alley, which you can visit today by donation.

When you’re finished in Fan Tan Alley, turn towards the water and walk back in the direction of the Inner Harbour, along Wharf Street. There are three more sights to see along the way.

#9 – Market Square

Accessed from Wharf Street or Pandora Street, Market Square is one of Victoria’s liveliest plazas. Although many of the buildings surrounding the square date back to the 1890s, the commercial square itself was only opened in the mid-1970s. It features three levels of shops, restaurants and services, and often hosts free concerts, performances and flea markets.

If you’re looking for an eclectic souvenir, stop by The Little Shop of Strange (upper level, at the Johnson Street entrance). If you’re vegan, Green Cuisine has a great plant-based buffet and kombucha on tap!

#10 – Lower Johnson Street (LoJo)

Market Square has an exit directly onto Lower Johnson Street (known as LoJo), or you can arrive via Wharf Street. Known as the city’s premiere shopping block, the colorful facades here front independent boutiques, spas and restaurants.  Even if you’re not in a shopping mood, it’s worth checking out the meticulously-restored architecture along this block.

If you have more time, I recommend checking out these businesses on LoJo:

• Free Spirit Botanicals – The Gardener’s Tea Tree Cream saves my skin in the winter, and now that I’ve moved inland I rely on their Mermaid Magic Salt Scrub to make my bath smell like the sea.
• Still Life – They have two stores on LoJo: one for menswear and one for womenswear. This has long been Victoria’s been boutique for high-quality, unique fashions.
• Hey Happy – If you need a quick caffeine hit to sustain all this sightseeing, this independent coffee shop can tell you exactly where their beans came from and where they were roasted… or they can whip you up an iced turmeric vanilla latte with homemade oat milk!

#11 – Johnson Street Bridge

If you had visited Victoria ten years ago you would have seen its famous “Blue Bridge” at the end of Johnson Street. Designed by the same architect who built San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, the Blue Bridge was considered to be an icon of the city (if perhaps a bit unsafe…)

In 2013 the old blue bridge was replaced with the current iteration you can see above. This rolling bascule bridge can be raised to allow large boats to pass underneath, so if you see a big ship en route when you’re nearby it might be worth stopping to see the show.

Otherwise, if there are no big boats on the way, you can follow the waterfront back to the Inner Harbour area for lunch and to decide on which of the three activities below you’ll do during the afternoon of your Victoria BC day trip.  I’ve listed some restaurant recommendations towards the end of this guide.

Things to Do on a Victoria BC Day Trip (Afternoon)

Whoa!  I know that seems like a lot to do in the morning, but I promise that there’s still lots of time left in the day!  In fact, it probably took me longer to write that section than it will take you to visit all of those spots! Assuming you followed my recommended sightseeing route and stopped for lunch, it’s time to get on with your afternoon in Victoria BC.

I’m going to give you three different options for your one afternoon in Victoria. These are some of my favorite things to do in Victoria and they are exactly what I would do if I only had one day to show off this city to a first-time visitor.

• Best for Small Children – If you’re spending one day in Victoria BC with young children, you’ll want to spend the afternoon at the Royal British Columbia Museum. This is also the top choice if it’s pouring rain!
• Best for Adventurers – If you’re with adults, or children over the age of seven, whale-watching in Victoria BC is an absolutely unforgettable experience.
• Best for Nature Lovers – If you are an avid gardener, or just love beautiful natural landscapes, a half-day trip to the Butchart Gardens will be the highlight of your day.

Option #1 – The Royal British Columbia Museum

In Canada, the title “Royal” still has to be bestowed by the King or Queen (via their representative, the Governor General). When you see a museum or heritage site with this designation, you know that it’s of real cultural significance and is absolutely worth visiting. That’s why the Royal British Columbia Museum is one of my top three recommendations for the afternoon of your Victoria BC day trip.

Located on the Inner Harbour, between the parliament buildings and the Empress Hotel, the Royal British Columbia Museum is ideal for families visiting Victoria with small children or for anyone looking for an indoor activity in the city center.

The second floor of the museum is dedicated to BC’s natural history, and it’s where you’ll find the famous woolly mammoth (shown above). Upstairs, the third floor is undergoing renovations at publication time: the immersive walk-through Old Town is currently open, but the galleries about BC’s Indigenous people are undergoing renovation. You can also expect to find world-class temporary exhibits – on my most recent visit they were showing ancient treasures from Angor Wat.

The onsite IMAX movie theater shows both feature films and educational programs (made for IMAX screens) relating to the current exhibits.

Option #2 – Whale Watching in Victoria BC

I think that one of the most special things you can do with one day in Victoria BC is to get out on a boat in the Salish Sea and see some of the Pacific Northwest’s spectacular wildlife.

There are two companies right in Victoria’s Inner Harbour that operate daily boat tours to see orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals, bald eagles and other local creatures. Personally, I have always gone whale watching with Prince of Whales (their office is directly below the Tourist Information Center, across from the Empress Hotel), but I also know that Orca Spirit Adventures is a popular ecotourism company as well.

Most whale watching tours take about three hours, and you have the choice of going out on a high-speed inflatable zodiac boat (my favorite!) or a slower, more comfortable covered boat with a climate-controlled interior. I took pictures of both types of boats for you – at the top you’ve got one of Orca Spirit Adventures’ red zodiac boats (plus the all-weather flotation suit you wear to keep warm) and under that you’ve got one of Prince of Whales’ yellow covered boats. Both companies use both types of boats.

Prince of Whales 🐋

• Zodiac Whale-Watching Tour – I’ve taken this exact tour three times and can highly recommend it. I’ve seen orcas, humpback whales, seals, sea lions and even deer (on the shore!) with Prince of Whales. They guarantee that you’ll see whales – if you don’t, you can come back on another day for free.
• Whale Watching on a Covered Boat – The larger boat is a better option for small children, anyone who experiences motion sickness, or travelers with back injuries.

Orca Spirit Adventures 🦭

• Whale Watching on a Covered Boat – Again, this large, comfortable boat is a good choice for anyone who would be uncomfortable with the bumps and splashes you experience on a zodiac.
• Zodiac Whale-Watching Tour – For most of the year, Orca Spirit Adventures books their zodiac whale-watching tours under this branding. They have a 95% success rate of sighting whales on this tour during the months from April to October.
• Zodiac Marine Wildlife Tour – This appears to be the same zodiac tour as above, but renamed for the off season (November through mid-January). Although the Salish Sea has two resident orca communities, at certain times of year the chances of seeing whales is decreased as there aren’t any additional transient or migratory whales in the region. This tour name reflects the different wildlife that you’re more likely to spot.

Option #3 – An Afternoon at the Butchart Gardens

Lonely Planet calls The Butchart Gardens one of the “nine best botanical gardens in the world” and I completely agree. This is Victoria’s show-stopping attraction, and while it’s not in the city center it is still worth visiting on a Victoria BC day trip.

If you have your own car, it’s easy to drive to the Butchart Gardens in less than thirty minutes. However, if you need to use public transportation, the trip on Bus #75 does take a full hour in each direction.

For first-time visitors, you’ll want a minimum of two hours to walk through the 55-acre botanical gardens. Start by descending into the Sunken Gardens (located in a former limestone quarry), exit via the concert lawn, pass through the Rose Gardens and then get lost in the Japanese Gardens (my favorite, shown above in my guide to the Butchart Gardens in autumn ). As you leave you’ll pass by the Star Pond and cross the Italian Gardens, where you can sign your name along with the other one million annual visitors.

The Butchart Gardens is midway between the Swartz Bay ferry terminal and Victoria’s downtown, so if you end your day here you can drive straight back to the ferry terminal without backtracking into town.

Where to Eat on a Victoria BC Day Trip

Victoria has the most restaurants per capita of any city in Canada, with 4.6 restaurants per 1,000 residents. As a result, the restaurant scene in Victoria is competitive and if a restaurant sticks around for more than a few years, you know it’s going to be great. Here are a few of the places that I always recommend people eat when they’re visiting Victoria.

Breakfast Restaurants in Victoria BC

Whenever I’m meeting up with friends and family in Victoria I always suggest we go out for breakfast, because the city has so many amazing breakfast and brunch restaurants. You should be able to hit up any one of these for breakfast or lunch… whichever suits yours sightseeing schedule best.

• Murchie’s Tea and Coffee – For a light, European-style breakfast, stop into Canada’s oldest tea company: Murchies. At this flagship location on Government Street, the cafe is open daily for breakfast and serves coffee, tea and homemade baked goods. Freshly-roasted coffee and loose-leaf tea from the shop next door also make great souvenirs… and don’t leave without looking at the automated antique “tea grannies”!
• Jam Cafe – For something a lot bigger, come to Jam Cafe. Here, you’ll find plates heaped high with flavorful dishes like huevos rancheros (served with cornbread and jalapeno cream) eggs Benedict (I like the pear and Brie version) and French toast (topped with cinnamon apples sauteed in maple butter).
• John’s Place – This classic diner has been in operation for more than 40 years, and is popular with locals who like good, homestyle breakfast dishes. They were featured on “You Gotta Eat Here!” (the Canadian version of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”).

Lunch and Dinner Restaurants in Victoria BC

• Noodlebox – Looking for quick eats?  Canadian stir-fry chain Noodlebox was born in Victoria. You can eat in or take your noodles to go – I recommend the Spicy Peanut Noodle Box and the Singapore Cashew Curry.
• Rebar Modern Food – My most-used cookbook comes from this Victoria staple in Bastion Square. My favorites include the Almond Burger and the Monk’s Curry. The menu is mostly vegetarian but some local fish is also served.
• Red Fish Blue Fish – There are no vegetarian dishes here (sorry), but all of the fish on the menu at this waterfront shipping container food truck has Oceanwise certification. Try the local halibut fish and chips, or have an order of wild BC salmon tacones (taco + cone = tacone).
• 10 Acres Bistro – Serving fresh, seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine, this is a great place to taste authentic Pacific Northwest flavors. The menu may change by the time you visit, but when I was there I loved their “healthyish” toast with romesco sauce, avocado and salsa verde.

Other Places to Eat on a Day Trip to Victoria BC

You might have to scale back the rest of your itinerary to squeeze in a meal at one of these iconic Victoria restaurants, but if you’re a foodie it will be worth it!

• Lobby Lounge at the Empress Hotel – If you’ve got time, you can have the full royal experience with afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel.  You’ll be served an elegant assortment of savory sandwiches and sweet baked goods, along with the loose-leaf tea of your choice.
• Rogers’ Chocolates – Canada’s oldest chocolatier can be found in their original heritage shop on Government Street, just a few steps away from Murchie’s Tea and Coffee. Take home a box of indulgent Victoria creams (I recommend the caramel, chocolate, coffee and vanilla flavors).
• Jackson’s Ice Cream Float – Victoria doesn’t have a great ice cream scene (maybe I should move back and open a gelato shop!) but this floating ice cream parlour at Fisherman’s Wharf is a fun place to grab a cone or cup, and you might just spot a seal or two while you’re there. Access via the cute little harbour ferries from the Inner Harbour.
• Parliamentary Dining Room – You can actually join BC politicians and public servants for an affordable lunch at the restaurant inside the parliament buildings. Daily specials are usually posted on the website one business day in advance. Reservations (contact info at the link) are highly recommended.

How to Get to Victoria BC for a One-Day Trip

Victoria BC is on an island, which means you have to plan your transportation carefully if you’re only coming for one day.

In my opinion, Harbour Air is the best way to get to Victoria for a one-day trip. Harbour Air’s seaplanes fly from Vancouver’s Harbour to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, taking off and landing right on the water! This is the most efficient way to get to and from Victoria in a single day, and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to fly in a seaplane over such a beautiful landscape! Book your flight well in advance.

There are other ways to get to Victoria for the day, but they don’t give you as much time in the city. Here are some alternatives:

• Kenmore Air – Seaplanes fly from Seattle’s Kenmore Harbour and Lake Union to Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
• Coho Ferry – This vehicle ferry travels from Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
• Clipper Ferry – This passenger ferry arrives in Victoria’s Inner Harbour from Seattle’s Pier 69.
• BC Ferries – BC Ferries take cars and foot passengers from the Tsawwassen ferry terminal (outside Vancouver) to Swartz Bay ferry terminal in Sidney, north of Victoria. From Swartz Bay you can drive (much faster) or use public transit (much slower) to reach Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
• BC Ferries Connector Service – This popular coach services picks up passengers at various locations in Vancouver and drops them off in downtown Victoria. Ferry fare is included in the ticket price.

Speaking of islands, I know that it’s kind of confusing but you should try to remember that Victoria is on Vancouver Island, while the city of Vancouver is on the mainland (not an island). Victoria Island is a completely different place, in Canada’s Arctic region. 🥶

I’m currently traveling around Western Canada and writing about all of the places that I visit. Check out all of my Canada travel guides , and if you have any questions, leave a comment below!

Planning a trip to Canada?  Pin this post for later!

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The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Victoria, B.C.

Victoria is a wonderful blend of old world charm and new world adventures that offers you an escape from the hustle and bustle and plenty to explore. You'll discover everything from historical landmarks and stunning gardens to craft breweries and outdoor excursions. Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is beautiful year-round but especially in the summer when you can find verdant lawns and hanging baskets bursting with colorful flowers. While the motives to visit Victoria are diverse as its activities, here are our top five reasons to visit Victoria, BC. 1.To Get a Taste of England If you are looking for an activity with British flavor, try Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress . Stepping into the opulent Tea Lobby feels like stepping back in time. The Empress has been serving traditional afternoon tea for over 100 years, which has attracted royalty, celebrities and dignitaries from around the world. Snacks such as melt-in-your-mouth scones with strawberry preserves and thick jersey cream go perfectly with a spot of tea, and atop the tier is a selection of delicious pastries from the Fairmont's award winning pastry shop. One of Victoria's most famous and popular attractions, The Butchart Gardens , is absolutely stunning during the summer months. The gardens started in 1904 as an effort to transform a worked-out limestone quarry, it is one of the world's premier floral show gardens. Wander through intimate stone paths past streams lined with colorful arrays of flowers and trees, or spend time in the Rose Garden, in full bloom through September. Kids will delight in the handcrafted carousel, as well. 2.Natural Beauty Combined with Outdoor Adventures Often called "The Garden City," Victoria's temperate climate provides beautiful scenery comprised of sparkling waters and lush gardens and forests and unlimited opportunities to explore the outdoors. Learn the basics of stand up paddle boarding in the Inner Harbour or sightsee from the inside of a kayak . During the tours, experienced guides will teach you everything you need to know about these water sports while showing the historic waterways. If you're lucky you may even spot a seal or an eagle. If you prefer to stay on dry land, consider taking a bicycle tour through the unique neighborhoods surrounding downtown. Take in the scenic views of the Dallas Waterfront and the iconic Chinatown, Craigdarroch Castle, Beacon Hill and Cook Street Village while pedaling. You'll see everything from breathtaking old mansions to the tallest totem pole in the world. 3.Victoria's Rich History & Culture The Royal British Columbia Museum is great place to discover the human and natural history of BC and beyond through the museum's extensive collections of artifacts, interactive exhibits and IMAX films. Currently, visitors can catch gold fever at the "Gold Rush: El Dorado in British Columbia" exhibit and learn how the discovery of gold in Fraser Canyon in 1858 changed life in BC forever as well as view rare items such as the Turnagain Nugget, the largest existing gold nugget from BC and gold art on loan from the Museo del Oro in Bogotá, Colombia. Craigdarroch Castle is another legendary Victorian landmark. Built by a coal baron during the time of Queen Victoria, the four-story Castle has been meticulously restored. Tour the 39 rooms complete with Victorian-era furnishings to get a glimpse of privileged life in the 1890s and don't forget to climb the 87 stairs to the tower for views of the city and the Olympic Mountains. Discover over 100 works of art by Robert Bateman, the world's greatest wildlife artist, at the Robert Bateman Centre . The museum is made up of thematic galleries containing stunning photos of everything from the oceans of British Columbia to the wilderness of Africa. 4.World Class Shopping Victoria is known for its local and independent boutiques, colorful public markets full of locally produced goods, and lively shopping centers. Get a taste of Victoria's culture in every sense of the word by heading to the Victoria Public Market, Bastion Square Market or Moss Street Market for home grown produce and artisanal, handcrafted wares. Fashionistas should make sure to visit the trendy Johnson Street, which is described by locals as "the best place to shop in Victoria," and is full of shops selling everything from rare, premium vintage to modern, custom-made clothes. 5.Sumptuous Cuisine From fine dining to casual bistros, Victoria is brimming with restaurants specializing in fresh local ingredients. The Victoria Food Tour is a great way to sample the best of the city's culinary scene and some hidden insider hot spots. This fully guided two-hour walking tour provides commentary and history on the area and places you are visiting and delectable samples at each stop. With 6-8 stops on this culinary adventure, you won't leave hungry. A number of wineries, craft breweries, spirit distilleries and cideries have also been popping up and making their mark on the town. Taste some of the best of these beverages yourself on the Local Libations on the Peninsula tour. On this guided tour you can relax, take in the scenery of the Saanich Peninsula and enjoy light refreshments as you travel to a craft brewery, cidery and spirits distillery. At each location you will be treated to drink samples and a private behind the scenes tour where you can see the brewing process in action. With so many things to do in Victoria, there is truly something for everyone. Plan on spending at least a few days in town to make sure you get explore all that this delightful city has to offer. For more information on transportation, hotels and activities, visit www.clippervacations.com .

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30 Things to do in Victoria, BC this Winter

Updated November 20, 2019

What’s not to love about winter in the Pacific Northwest? Not only do you have the perfect excuse to bundle up in your warmest sweaters (and even put those fuzzy socks to good use) , but it’s also the season to seek out a snug spot to while away a blustery day. Feeling the winter itch and in need of a little fun Canadian adventure? From curling up with tasty beverages to exploring some of our region’s most iconic sights, resist hibernation with our picks for 30 things to do in Victoria, BC this winter.

1. The Butchart Gardens Historical Display & Spring Prelude

With Vancouver Island’s temperate climate, The Gardens are great to visit, even during the winter months. Check out the subtle beauty of the shrubs, trees and flowers as light snowfall and seasonal change ready The Gardens for another spring.

When you need to warm up, pop inside the former Butchart family residence, Benvenuto, to learn more about The Butchart Garden’s history through curated displays of memorabilia. Or duck into the Spring Prelude to get a taste of spring come early in this indoor garden filled with daffodils, tulips, tropical plants and orchids.

`2. The Fairmont Empress

A renowned international landmark, it’s hard to find a locale that’s more quintessentially Victoria than the Fairmont Empress . Needless to say, you’ll be treated like royalty during your stay. Cozy up in the Lobby Lounge for a festive and delicious afternoon tea . Or unwind with your significant other in the luxurious Willow Stream Spa .

Whisk away any lingering holiday stress with their unique Spa Ritual and two indulgent, 60-minute treatments. End your night cuddling by the fireside on the harbor-facing Veranda, cocoa or spiced cider in hand. Say it with me…simply ahh-mazing.

3. The Royal BC Museum

Home to an impressive collection of artifacts and engaging interactive exhibits, the Royal BC Museum also hosts a variety of fun and festive events come wintertime. Check out the adult-only Night Shift party in early February. Put some swing in your step with vintage soul, funk and disco tunes, snap a selfie with that special someone and craft your own vintage valentine!

Or have your breath taken away at this year’s  Wildlife Photographer of the Year  display at the  Royal BC Museum ! In its 55 th  year running, this global competition showcases a diverse selection of nature photography from mountain peaks to the depths of the sea.

4. Brews & Bites Tour

Want to pack in a lot of local flavor? Hop on a walking tour of the city’s best brews and bites at local hop spots and sample delicious small plates of food expertly paired with sips from local microbrewers.

With a resident beer expert as your guide, you’ll also get behind the scenes access. Meet the brewer, get a hands-on introduction to the brewing process and taste the freshest possible beer sampled straight from the source!  Book this tour with Clipper,  learn more .

5. Cowichan Wine Country Tour

If the weather outside is frightful, delight in a day trip north to the Cowichan Valley and warm your soul with a glass of wine. Unwind as you soak in stunning views and sip on an assortment of award-winning wines from three different vineyards . (Inside tip: While the Malahat is awe-inspiring any time of year, when covered in a dusting of snow, it transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland.)

6. Horse-Drawn Trolley Rides

Need to give your feet (and legs) a rest after ambling around downtown? Cozy up on a Tally-Ho Carriage tour for a romantic sightseeing trip through the peaceful Beacon Hill Park and take in the winter scenery. Book this tour with Clipper, learn more.

7. Tigh Na Mara Seaside Spa Resort

In case you need an invitation to leave the busy mainland, the fabulous Tigh Na Mara Seaside Spa Resort is pretty tough to resist. Decompress in the award-winning, rock-ensconced Grotto Spa and listen to the calming rush of a waterfall while falling into a state of pure bliss. Afterward, take a moonlit stroll along the resort’s three-kilometer stretch of pristine sandy beach.

8. Chinatown Historical Walks

The Lunar New Year in Victoria is a pretty big deal. After all, the city is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada . Ring in the Year of the Rat by venturing out on a Chinatown Historical Walking tour. Explore Tam Kung Temple, the famously narrow Fan Alley and more for an in-depth understanding of Chinatown’s fascinating past and vibrant present. Book this tour with Clipper, learn more.

9. Oak Bay Beach Hotel & Spa

Tranquil, serene and stunning, there is no better place to snuggle with your special someone than the intimate, oasis-like setting at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel . Treat yourself to a couples massage in the spa, then close out the day with a soak in the famous mineral pools while hints of eucalyptus from the indoor steam room drift in and out with the shifting breeze. Hello hygge. Book this hotel with Clipper, learn more.

10. Victoria Public Market at the Hudson

An excellent spot to grab a bite or a treat to go any time of year, the Public Market at the Hudson serves up an extra helping of artisan goodness during the winter. Dive into a slice of deliciously-sweet pecan pie from Victoria Pie Co. , a block of creamy cheese from Salt Island Cheese or a variety of savory treats at  Ravenstone Farm Artisan Meats and French Oven Bakery.

11 . Clarke & Co.

Cozy up in the relaxed and inviting 14 seat Clarke & Co. bar for outstanding cocktails created with locally-distilled spirits and house-made ingredients. Be adventurous, skip the menu and get a taste of Canada with the Maple Butter Smoked Old Fashioned paired with comfort food-inspired small plates.

12. Russell Books

With 18,000 square feet of retail space chock-full of floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, Russell Books on Fort Street truly is a book lovers’ dream. Looking for a special title? There’s a good chance you’ll find it in their section devoted to rare and vintage books. As an added bonus, there are several cozy corners where you can curl up with your new read.

13. St. Ann’s Academy

A magnificent treasure older than the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings, the iconic, mid-1800s St. Ann’s Academy is the perfect locale to warm up on a historic walking tour of Victoria . Duck inside the cathedral, where you’ll find elaborate ceiling carvings, gold-leaf detailing, original oil paintings and other relics of the structure’s past. You might even catch a glimpse of one of the former schoolhouse’s resident apparitions .

14. Hey Happy Coffee

If you need a delicious hand warmer as you meander around Victoria’s downtown core, hop into the light-filled Hey Happy Coffee on Johnson Street. We highly recommend the Black & Tan – a baby Americano topped with warm maple cream. Otherwise known as pure Canada in a cup.

15. Venus Sophia Tea

A chic, modern afternoon tea room situated in the heart of Victoria’s historic Chinatown, Venus Sophia offers a new twist on an old classic – a sumptuous lineup of entirely vegetarian eats. Best of all, everything in this cozy, family-run café is made from scratch using the freshest ingredients.

16. Rogers Chocolates

It wouldn’t be the holidays without giving in to your sweet tooth. Pop into the iconic Rogers’ Chocolates  store to sample a few sugary delights. After all, as Canada’s first chocolatier, they know a thing or two about crafting irresistible candy. Indulge in a piece of chocolate history and pick up their most famous creation – the Victoria Cream. Featuring a decadent, creamy center buried inside a thick chocolate shell, this little piece of heaven will leave you begging for more.

17. Bard and Banker

There is no better place to ease the winter chill with a frothy pint or two-finger pour of whiskey than at Bard & Banker . Opened in 1885 as the Bank of British Columbia, the building has a history as rich as a fine bourbon and now also serves as a music venue with live acts seven days a week.

18. Veneto Kitchen + Bar

Cap off a day of exploring with artisanal liquors at one of the locals’ favorite watering holes, Veneto , on Douglas Street. Here, cocktails are serious business. Sample a unique spin on a classic libation or if you have trouble picking a drink from the restaurant’s impressive menu, “spin the wheel” and leave the decision making up to your capable mixologist. They will whip you up a tasty beverage based on your favorite spirit and flavor profile.

19. Johnson and Government Street Shopping

‘Tis the season to spoil your sweetie with a special gift! For on-point finds, make your way to Victoria’s amazing shopping mecca LoJo (that’s Lower Johnson Street for the uninitiated) . Pick up distinctive handmade gold and silver baubles at the adorable Tonic jewelry store housed in Market Square. Or head over to Violette on Government Street for delicate treasures crafted by local, fashion-forward designers such as Leah Alexandra and Pyrrha Design.

20. The Regional Assembly of Text

Embrace the lost art of letter writing and sweep your S.O. off their feet. Swing into the stylishly-low tech Regional Assembly of Text on Johnson Street and go old-school by crafting a love note on one of their typewriters. Bonus points for tucking your note into one of the shop’s adorable handmade cards for a custom-made gift.

21. Ogden Point

A breathtaking walkway extending about 800 meters from the Victoria shoreline, the Breakwater at Ogden Point is our go-to spot for catching a spectacular sunrise or a phenomenal sunset. With your sweetie in tow, there is no better spot for a romantic date.

22. Craigdarroch Castle

With 39 ornate rooms and more than four stories to explore, the stately Craigdarroch Castle (which was built for the wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir and his family) offers the perfect respite should you need to dodge winter raindrops for an hour or two.

Plus, Victorian-inspired Christmas decor will be gracing the walls and halls of the castle all December long and will be accompanied by classic holiday tunes and festive tours. There is no better spot for the kiddos to learn about traditions from Christmases past.

23. Abkhazi Garden

Centered on a love story, there is no sweeter place to go for a stroll with your special someone than the hidden Abkhazi Garden . A romantic and inspiring spot, the one-acre garden was created in 1946 as a labor of love by Prince and Princess Abkhazi. These two star-crossed lovers were separated in World War II, but were reunited and married after the war.

View the majestic trees and dynamic, evolving plantings scattered around the grounds. Afterward, step inside for afternoon tea in the original home, where you’ll feel like a personal guest of the Abkhazis.

24. Hot Springs Cove

Soak your cares away at the secluded Hot Springs Cove east of Tofino, which is only accessible by boat or floatplane. Wander down a quiet trail surrounded by magnificent temperate old-growth forest in Maquinna Provincial Park. At your destination, forget all your worries, concerns and stress as you take a dip in the succession of untouched, piping hot geothermal pools that grow progressively cooler as they reach the ocean.

25. Jam Café

A hip, but diminutive spot in Victoria’s Old Town, Jam Café is one of our favorite places in the city for an all-important weekend brunch. Get into the holiday spirit with their fabulous rotating daily specials, such as the “Festive French Toast,” which features two pieces of marzipan-filled stolen topped with cranberry crème anglaise, spiced candied almonds and a heaping pile of whipped cream.

26. Botanical Beach

Best known for its tide pools teeming with marine life, in the winter, Botanical Beach is an excellent spot to hunker down and revel in the season’s stormy weather. Don your best waterproof gear, wander along forested wooden walkways and watch as thundering waves crash against other-worldly rock formations along the shore.

27. The Drake Eatery

Named in homage to the original Drake Hotel and Beer Parlour that opened on the corner of Store and Johnson in 1954, the cozy farm-to-table Drake Eatery serves up mouth-watering small bites made from local, organic ingredients. Check out the cheese and meat boards, featuring tempting morsels such as smoked duck breast, beef bresaola and local Capilano salami.

28. White Heather Tea Room

It wouldn’t be winter without drinking buckets (or should we say gallons) of tea, am I right? If you’ve yet to get your proper tea fix, follow the Victoria tea trail to the White Heather Tea Room in Oak Bay. This off-the-beaten-path eatery offers up a tremendous afternoon tea service, with a classic three-tiered platter overflowing with savory finger sandwiches and sweet pastries. You’ll leave with a full tummy and have enough leftover treats for a snack later.

29. Sheringham Point Lighthouse

Standing tall above the rocky coastline, the historic 105-year-old Sheringham Point Lighthouse is one of Vancouver Island’s must-see secret spots. A short walk along the picturesque Lighthouse View Trail will land you at the lighthouse itself, where you and your significant other can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and sit and watch the waves for a while. Get the camera ready as you may even spot a pod of whales or catch sight of an otter cruising the shoreline.

30. Hotel Grand Pacific

Situated in the heart of downtown Victoria, the stately Hotel Grand Pacific is the perfect locale to indulge in a little R&R. Bring your “A” game and spoil your special someone with the ingredients for the ultimate romantic escape – luscious chocolates, breakfast in bed, a bottle of bubbly and a stunning view. Hello Valentine’s Day!

No matter what type of adventure speaks to you, there is an abundance of wintertime fun to be had in your own backyard. Whether you want to indulge in excellent eats, relax in a steaming mineral pool or discover some of the best boutiques on the West Coast, a weekend away to the charming city of Victoria, BC is the perfect winter retreat for weekend nomads.

Featured Photo: Lorna Tyson

10 Reasons to Visit Victoria in 2017

As British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria is an incredible, international hub of food, culture and art. Its temperate climate opens up the door to numerous activities and events, and there are endless opportunities to delve into and discover something new. If you’ve never been, or need some extra encouragement to go back, here are 10 reasons to visit Victoria, BC in 2017.

• Victoria knows how to throw a party

2017 marks Canada’s 150 th birthday, and you can bet Victoria is going to be getting everyone out to party hardy for their country. Eleven days before the big one-five-oh, a number of celebratory events will be taking place along the iconic Inner Harbour and multiple other locations all over the city. Don your red and white to pay a visit to the BC’s capital for this new notch in Canada’s belt as a country. Check out www.spirit150victoria.ca/celebrate-canada/ for a calendar of events and schedule.

• Young country, fancy old buildings

Despite Canada being only 150 years old, there’s a surprising amount of elegant, historical buildings to be seen. For a dash of history, Victoria is the perfect stop over. Peruse the BC Legislative Buildings to learn a bit about Canadian government and bask in Romanesque Revival architectural style. They’re especially stunning at night. On top of that, you can check out the Craigdarroch Castle, the Empress Hotel, Government House, Emily Carr House and plenty of others. Visit our Historical Places page.

• 365-Days of Outdoors (if you want)

Victoria experiences some of the mildest climates around, sitting under 30 degrees Celsius in the summer and rarely dropping below 0 in the winter. As a bonus, unless you head for the mountains, snow rarely touches the ground. This means golf courses stay open all year, hiking trails and parks aren’t buried in the snow and there’s no need to pile on 20 layers of clothing to go check the mail. There’s also surfing all year round nearby (but especially in the winter), a couple of ski hills within reach and fantastic beaches and swimming spots for those hot summer days.  Those craving that outdoor lifestyle can pretty much live under the stars and sky any time of year. Check out some of these great hikes !

• The colours and scents are both constant and endless

Thanks again to the moderate climate, Victoria is a haven of gardens and flowers. In fact, it has been dubbed the “City of Gardens.” Just try being cranky when you’re basked in the scent and liveliness of endless greenery and frequently flowering plants. With the infamous Butchart Gardens, as well as numerous other hidden treasures, there is almost no end to the blossoming beauty in the city. Downtown alone is lined with about 1,350 handcrafted hanging baskets starting in June, all the way to September. Many areas are turned into an enchanted winter wonderland over the holidays, making the gardens another example of the 365 days of outdoors Victoria offers. Discover Victoria’s gardens here.

• 3 weeks are dedicated purely to feeding people great food

Fresh food abound, Victoria is a hot spot for literally any type of cuisine, fit to any style of dining. If visitors and locals weren’t inclined to pay a visit to the delectable eats offered by the city, Dine Around and Stay in Town will surely encourage at least one restaurant outing. From February 17-March 5 th , over 60 restaurants put together a special menu for patrons to choose from. Featuring 3-course menus for $20, $30, $40 and $50 per person, you can choose a menu showcasing incredible foods that suits both your belly and your wallet. It’s the perfect chance to experience a new restaurant with some of the best, handcrafted menus, or try out something completely new and get insight into the unique flavours they have to offer.

• Shopping tastes good

Victoria has an abundance of local farms that are constantly producing unreal products. Therefore, it is only natural that Victoria is home to a multitude of Farmer’s Markets. Although most run during the summer months only, the Victoria Public Market in the Hudson boasts plenty of artisan products year-round. Feel good knowing you’re shopping local, getting the freshest and finest products around and that plenty of samples await your shopping excursion. It’s a great way to delve into the local life and see what Victoria has to offer.

• Visiting vineyards doesn’t require a flight to Italy

Sommeliers rejoice; the Cowichan Region and other areas just outside of Victoria are home to numerous, incredible vineyards. Most are fit with wineries and tasting rooms, as well as restaurants full of the freshest, local goods. Pay a visit to the rooms to sample some of the finest selection of BC wines, crafted less than an hour outside of the city. Move over, Italia, Victoria is coming through with some fine sipping of its own.

• Day drinking is both easily accomplished and encouraged

Besides wine, Victoria has kept up with the microbrew fad that has taken over many parts of the world. Hop onto a brew tour or book a seat on a brewery bus and head out to sip your way through the day. There are numerous breweries in Victoria with tours and tasting rooms and many restaurants also casually feature their own beer. Some restaurants are even purely dedicated to showcasing different microbreweries from all over the place.

Highlights include: Phillips, Hoyne, Spinnakers, Canoe, Swans, VIB and Lighthouse.

• Animals love Victoria, too

Bound by the ocean, whale watching is a prime activity in Victoria. 3 pods of resident orcas liked the place enough to stay, as did numerous other marine animals. Sea lions, Gray, Humpback and Minke Whales, porpoises and plenty of marine birds join the orcas in the waters of the Pacific. Although you can take a trek into the forest or onto the sea to make some new friends, there are plenty of local animals right there in the city: Paying a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf usually makes for a meet and greet with the local seals that show off to entice you into sharing your lunch.

• Victoria is only the beginning

An incredible city unto itself, Victoria also acts as a gateway to the rest of Vancouver Island. The city is simply just the beginning. Mountains and local swimming holes nearby slowly entice you out of the boundary of the city. From there, the highway is your friend and more treasures wait. The beaches of Tofino, the forests of Cathedral Grove, the trails in Strathcona, the fishing in Ucluelet… Everything is within your reach as you head out from Victoria to the rest of what Vancouver Island has to offer. Visit this post about road trips to take from Victoria for more great adventures!

Contributed by: Laurissa Cebryk

VICTORIA WEATHER

Do & See

• Top Things to do
• Whale Watching
• Fishing Charters
• Culture and Art
• Tours and Activities
• Vancouver Island Links

Eat & Drink

• Restaurants
• Craft Beer and Brewpubs

Plan Your Visit

• Getting Around in Victoria
• Travel Tips
• Getting Here

Where To Sleep

• Hotels in Victoria
• Accommodation
• Easy Trails
• Scenic Walks

Pros and Cons of living in Victoria, British Columbia

Vancouver Island is located off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. It is a large island of 31,285 square kilometres and is known for its amazing natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. The largest city on the Island – and actually the capital city of British Columbia – is Victoria, a city of over 92,000 people, located at the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

Many people considering moving to the Island , or BC in general, might wonder: what are the pros and cons of living in Victoria, BC? Well, if you’re looking for a beautiful place to live that is surrounded by natural beauty, has safe and family-friendly communities, and is known for a laid-back lifestyle, Victoria is a great choice! There are, however, a few cons as well such as the cost of living and distance from the Mainland, which makes travel challenging.

Let’s review these pros and cons further in-depth so that you can understand what living in Victoria, BC would be like.

Pros of living in Victoria

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1. Beautiful natural surroundings

The first major pro of living in Victoria, BC is the absolutely gorgeous surroundings of the city. It is located on the southern coast of Vancouver Island and looks out across the Pacific Ocean to Washington, USA. There are sweeping ocean views from many parts of the city, and the downtown core is set on a picturesque marina.

Just outside of Victoria is access to many of the wonderful natural features of Vancouver Island, including forests, lakes, the ocean, and mountains. There are many options for active recreation year-round and a great place to immerse in an outdoor lifestyle.

2. Good job opportunities

There are a number of excellent job opportunities in Victoria that make it a desirable place to live. One high-demand industry is the Provincial Government, as the BC Parliament buildings are located in Victoria. If you are interested in a career in the public service, Victoria has a lot of job opportunities .

The tourism industry is also a big employer in Victoria; there are over 60,000 tourism jobs across the entire Island. Because of its close proximity to the Mainland relative to other parts of Vancouver Island, Victoria is a top tourist destination and attracts over four million visitors a year. Therefore, there are many jobs to be had in the city in this industry.

3. Little traffic and easy to commute

Victoria may be the largest city on the Island, but it is still relatively small and nowhere near larger cities in Canada like Vancouver or Toronto in terms of traffic and long commutes. Therefore, it is relatively easy and comfortable to drive in and around the city, making commutes to work or school stress-free.

4. Great cultural activities and attractions

As the capital city of BC, there are a number of famous cultural attractions that make Victoria a wonderful place to live. Top attractions include the Royal BC Museum, which has amazing historical and present-day culture exhibitions, and the BC Parliament Buildings, where the Legislative Assembly of BC is held and is open for tours.

Other top attractions include the Craigdarroch Castle (a historical Victorian mansion), the Butchart Gardens (large and beautiful botanical gardens), and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

5. Safe communities

Victoria is a very safe, family-friendly city. This study shows a low crime index and that most people who were polled have low or moderate perceptions of crime and danger in the city. As with most places in BC and even Canada, it is generally safe to walk around the city at all times during the day or night, though caution should be exercised in certain areas.

3. Good weather

Victoria enjoys a mild climate and moderate weather year-round. There are over eight months a year that is frost-free, and it rarely snows in the city. Data shows that there is an average of 2,193 hours of sunshine every year and only 58.3cm of rainfall annually, compared to a whopping 146cm in Vancouver each year.

Cons of living in Victoria

1. expensive.

The biggest con of living in Victoria is the cost of living. Like the rest of BC, Victoria is a fairly expensive city to live in and likely the most expensive city on the Island. This cost-of-living comparison tool shows that consumer prices for items like food, gas, or groceries are more expensive than they are in Vancouver. 

However, the cost to own or rent in Victoria is lower than in Vancouver. Still, according to recent statistics , purchasing a house in Victoria is, on average, more than $1 million

2. More challenging to travel

While traveling in and around Victoria is easy due to low traffic, it can be more challenging to travel both to the Mainland and internationally. Many people who live in Victoria and on the Island will need to go to Vancouver for larger shopping trips or specialist appointments, and so will have to take the ferry. This is both time-consuming and expensive.

International travel can also be more challenging from Victoria. While there is an international airport in the city, prices are usually higher to fly in and out of it and there are fewer options overall. So, many people will fly out of the Vancouver International Airport which requires a ferry trip or layover, adding time and expense to the trip.

3. Fewer restaurants, entertainment options

Though Victoria is the largest city on Vancouver Island and certainly has its fair share of things to do and see, it still is not the large, cosmopolitan city that some people might like. The downtown area is very walkable and residents will become accustomed to the limited restaurants, shops, and entertainment that are available. 

While most people will be satisfied with the selection of things to do, it should not be considered the same as a larger city that offers endless options of places to eat or things to see.

4. Lots of tourists

Because of the natural beauty and many cultural attractions, Victoria is a very busy city with tourists visiting year-round, but especially during the summer months. As of this 2019 study, there were more than four million overnight visitors each year. This means that the downtown core, especially, can be busy with tour groups arriving from the Mainland, which might be disruptive to some residents.

Victoria, BC is a beautiful city with great natural beauty, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and great weather. However, there are some cons, too, such as the high cost of living, a large number of tourists, and distance from the Mainland for more challenging travel.

If you are considering moving to Victoria, take note of these pros and cons in your decision-making. Overall, Victoria is definitely worth a visit and should be considered as somewhere to live in British Columbia !

Bell R Webster

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The Best Time of Year to Visit Victoria BC

Are all seasons the best time of year to visit victoria bc, you’ll have to visit to find out.

What is the best time of year to visit Victoria BC? They say timing is everything. From the big moments in life like buying your first house. To the mundane like giving a toddler chocolate before bed. We can all agree that timing matters. When it comes to travel, it’s no different. You want to make sure you time it just right to make the most of your vacation! While in beautiful Victoria BC, we have some seasons that are definitely better than others. With our temperate weather, we’re lucky to say that Victoria is stunning and accessible all year ‘round. 

In the spring, the entire city bursts with blooms from fragrant hyacinths and vibrant daffodils to fluffy cherry blossoms and enormous magnolias. It’s this time of year that has chilly spring showers interspersed with gloriously warm days and bluebird skies. Spring is a perfect time to book some activities. You can miss the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season in late summer. 

Whale Watching

The spring is the perfect season to go whale watching . While you can encounter some inclimate weather, the spring is the time of year where guests are more likely to see Humpback, Orcas, Minke and Grey Whales as they migrate.

As the days get warmer and longer, kayaking is a wonderful way to spend a sunny spring day. While the temperatures won’t have reached their summertime peaks, if you prepare for a slight chill, this laid back, easy sport is a perfect way to get out of your comfort zone and explore Victoria from a new perspective. 

Dining 

In the spring, all across the city, restaurants begin to unfurl their umbrellas ushering in one of the best seasons for local and visiting gourmands: patio season. Victoria is a culinary city and prides itself on using fresh, local, seasonal ingredients and the spring brings a cornucopia of locally sourced, fresh produce, seafood and meat. The time of year where Victorians begin to come out of their wintry confinement to live and dine alfresco. 

As spring turns to summer, the sun begins to leave its mark on the city. Cherry blossoms are replaced by leafy layers that intertwine to create living canopies over quiet, sun-baked streets. Families flock to beaches, cyclists abound and every patio is filled with happy people and cold drinks. This is the time of year when the rain is scarce and life can be lived outdoors. 

Beaches 

If you are looking for soft, sandy beaches Gonzales , Cadboro and Willows are all stunning beaches with soft sand and clear waters. Dallas Road may be known for the beautiful seaside trail that you can walk from downtown to Beacon Hill Park and beyond but just over the edge are some beautiful hidden beaches all waiting to be explored. Clamber over the boulders to find tide pools and seek out little coves to spend a few hours in the sun. 

Festivals 

The Indigenous Cultural Festival offers visitors a chance to watch performances, see artisans at work and try some heavenly BBQ salmon, fry bread and clam chowder. Victoria is one music loving city and the longevity of the International Jazz Festival is proof! Celebrate Canada’s Birthday with the Canada Day Celebrations downtown Victoria! One of the most joyful festivals happens for an entire week during Victoria Pride Week – come celebrate and support our LGBTQ+ family! Symphony Splash is the beautiful marriage between the Victoria Symphony and fireworks – need we say more?

One of the best parts of summer in Victoria is the abundance of summer markets . In every borough and town, all throughout Victoria and the surrounding areas, you can find incredible farm markets selling everything from fresh local produce, honey, cheese, jams to stunning artisan jewelry, pottery and so much more!

While the fall brings shorter days and cloudier skies, in Victoria, early fall can be gloriously sunny and warm with a fresh crispness in the air. Green leaves turn amber and gold and the rainy season hasn’t returned in earnest. It’s the perfect time to avoid the large crowds of the summer but still enjoy sunnier skies. 

Cideries, Breweries and Distilleries

Victoria is home to so many incredible craft breweries , artisanal cideries and some stunning distilleries . Simply call ahead or visit a tasting room or two, you’ll learn about the process, taste inspired libations and have fun! 

As the crowds of the summer disperse and the weather cools, hiking is a great way to get out into nature and soak up the beauty of fall on the Island. Right in Victoria you can take a seaside stroll along Dallas Road , get above the city on Christmas Hil l, Mount Douglas or Mount Tolmie . For a moderate hike, Thetis Lake is a great loop around a beautiful lake not too far from downtown. 

Best Time of Year to Visit Victoria BC? Festival time! Brewery and the Beast Culinary Festival is a mouthwatering good time aimed at celebrating local, sustainable farming practices and encouraging conscientious consumerism to support local farmers. Hosted by the Victoria Film Festival, Art of the Cocktail puts the fun in fundraiser, where ticket holders can taste cocktails and learn how to make some eye popping drinks. Every year, the Coho salmon swim upstream en masse in a writhing, glittering surge known as the Salmon Run at Goldstream Provincial Park – come watch one of the most fascinating and important events in BC’s biodiversity.

In comparison to other Canadian cities our winters seem balmy but make no mistake, winter in Victoria is wet, grey and cold. That doesn’t mean that it’s not still worth a visit though! In between rainy days, Victoria can see some snow and chilly sun during the winter and if there’s one thing Islanders know is that winters can be peaceful and cozy.

Hygge all the rave right now! The Danish word for feeling sung and content through the long winters has grown in popularity for good reason! All you need is an incredible place to stay and some accoutrements to make your space cozy and inviting. If you’re looking to splurge on locally made treats, you’ll find everything you need at the Victoria Public Market . For the freshest produce and largest selection of organic foods, the Market on Yates is your best bet in Victoria.

For all you culture vultures out there, the winter may be one of the best times of year to visit. Escape the cold with a visit to the RBCM . This is where visitors can spend hours exploring the exhibits and watching a movie at the IMAX. Spend a quiet afternoon of contemplation at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria . Enjoy the stunning, Gothic style Christ Church Cathedral . Kids of all ages will love the Bug Zoo , Miniature World and the beautiful Butterfly Gardens . There’s so much to do in Victoria and with the summer crowds long gone. The attractions are easier to navigate and quieter so you can enjoy at your leisure. 

The weather outside is frightful but the festivals in Victoria are delightful! The annual kick-off to the Christmas season is the Festival of Trees at the Bay Center! Get into the Christmas spirit at The Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens and don’t forget to watch the lighting of the Christmas tree at the Legislature during Christmas Lights across Canada . New Years blues are forgotten at the Lunar New Year celebrations in historic Chinatown.   

No matter what time of year you plan your trip, Victoria is always fun, peaceful and beautiful.  What is the best time of year to visit Victoria BC? Anytime is the best time to visit Victoria BC!

10 Top Reasons That Make Living In Victoria BC Amazing

Victoria, British Columbia’s stunning capital city stands out as a first-class destination for expats who demand the best of everything. Let’s take a look at what it’s really like living in Victoria BC.

Find The Best Rates For Your Health Insurance Abroad 

Knowing where the best place to live in Canada is a tricky question to answer. We all have different ideas about our ideal place to call home.

However, one Canadian city stands out, especially for expats – British Columbia and its stunning capital, Victoria. Let’s take a look at what makes living in Victoria so special.

British Columbia (B.C.) is one of the most desirable places to settle and work in Canada – not only for its magnificent scenery and moderate climate but for its diverse culture, high standard of living, competitive wages, and more.

Victoria, as the capital of the region, is the main destination for those who want to relocate to British Columbia.

Located on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island (not Victoria Island), Victoria ranks incredibly well in terms of its economic, real estate, climate, attraction, and amenity ratings, and this makes it one of the best places to live, work or retire in Canada .

Here are some of the features that make living in Victoria so enjoyable:

  Employment opportunities

Those living in Victoria are offered diverse opportunities in business, an emerging technology sector, both provincial and federal government offices, and CFB Esquimalt , a naval base.

The area is increasingly developing as a marine, forestry and agricultural research centre. Employment in British Columbia is expected to grow by an average of 1.8 per cent each year through to 2019, creating a total of 450,000 new jobs.

British feel

The city is named after Queen Victoria and is known for its old-world charm, with narrow streets lined with 19th-century stone buildings.

Victoria has always had a history as a stronghold of British traditions. Victoria was awarded the Prince of Wales Prize for its dedication to preserving the City’s heritage buildings and districts for over 40 years.

Great weather

Victoria has one of the best climates in the entire country. 

It enjoys what’s known as a sub-Mediterranean climate. It regularly enjoys temperatures in the twenty-degree centigrade range in the summer, hardly ever dipping below freezing or suffering snow covering in the winter. 

In terms of official weather statistics , if you’re going to be living in Victoria, you can expect 2,183 hours of sunshine a year, at least half the rainfall of New York, at least eight frost-free months a year, low humidity, cooling offshore breezes in the summer and the perfect climate to enjoy a very outdoor centric lifestyle. 

Victoria has an annual rainfall that is only half that of the city of Vancouver due to its location in the rain shadow of the US Olympic Mountains. Winters here are so mild that snowfall is unusual and, in some winters, almost non-existent.

Stunning gardens

Victoria’s temperate climate is a source of great pride for gardeners living in Victoria – the range of plants that they can grow there is unsurpassed by any location in Canada. 

Also known as “The Garden City”, Victoria boasts blooming flowers year-round. Approximately 1,500 hanging baskets adorn lampposts throughout the City of Victoria each summer. 

The famous Butchart Gardens , opened in 1904, are only about a twenty-five-minute drive from downtown Victoria.

Balanced age demographic

The city is as popular with retirees as it is with those who are starting their professional careers.

There is an excellent balance in the age demographic in this part of British Columbia. It’s been called the City Of The Newly Wed Or Nearly Dead. Almost 18% of the population is over 65 years of age. 

The median age in Victoria is 43.1 years – about four years older than in metro Vancouver.

Great education

The educational standards and facilities in Victoria are fantastic.

There are public and private schools and universities and colleges to choose from, and around 72% of the population of the city has at least some tertiary level education behind them – which is way above the national norm. 

Victoria is home to the University of Victoria and Royal Roads University .

Sociable and fun city

Victoria is a leading artistic, cultural, and historic center.

It’s home to many annual festivals. It has museums, golf clubs, yacht clubs, marinas, fitness centers, ice rinks, tennis courts, stadiums, arenas, a car race track, and a horse racing track – proving you’ll never be bored living in Victoria. 

Victoria has the second highest number of restaurants per capita in North America, second only to San Francisco.

There are over 70 city parks, including Beacon Hill Park, which boasts vistas across the Juan de Fuca Strait.

Beacon Hill Park is also home to the Mile “0” marker for the 8,000-kilometre Trans-Canada Trail. 

Victoria’s Inner Harbour – the heart of the city – is simply stunning. It’s flanked by historic buildings and sees all sorts of boat and floatplane activity on the water.

Best place for cycling

If you are a devoted cyclist or just enjoy cycling with your kids at the weekend, living in Victoria can provide you with incredible cycling opportunities.

Victoria is the Cycling Capital of Canada – and for a good reason. It boasts an extensive system of bicycle paths. In fact, you can cycle from the ferry in Schwartz Bay on a bike path all the way to downtown Victoria. Then you can continue on into Sooke too.

Plus, it’s easy to make your way by bike to the Gulf Islands or the Cowichan Valley area.

Easy to travel

You can get to Victoria via ferry (and a drive from the ferry terminal) from Vancouver and Nanaimo.

There are ferries from Washington State, too – including ones that do a Victoria – Port Angeles run and a Sidney to Anacortes ferry.

Float planes come from all over, including regular flights from downtown Vancouver. And, of course, there is an international airport that is particularly easy to fly in and out of.

Best place for diving

Those living in Victoria can enjoy fantastic snorkeling and diving.

National Geographic designated Victoria as one of the best cold-water diving destinations for its marine diversity and water clarity. In fact, the renowned Jacques Cousteau Society considers it the second-best region, only behind the Red Sea.

Living in Victoria BC – summary

As you can see, Victoria has it all. It’s easy to understand why people living in Victoria are so proud of their city and why it is such an attraction for both Canadians and expats, not merely as a tourist destination but as a great place to live and raise a family too.

If you are thinking about moving to Canada and are wondering where best to locate yourself, take a closer look at Victoria and see whether it’s the sort of location that you could happily call home. Alternatively, take a look at The Best Places to Live in Canada . Maybe you will find your ideal location there.

You might find useful:

• Living In Ottawa Vs Toronto The Pros And Cons .
• Living In Canada – Plan Your Move With Our Expat Guide .
• Which Is The Best province To Live In Canada .

Helpful external links:

• The City of Victoria’s official website .

Expatra Research

Our most popular evergreen guides are kept fresh and up-to-date by our in-house research team. If you have any questions about our guides or the country discussed feel free to contact us or leave a comment below and we'll get back to you.

This web page is clearly written by people who don’t live in Victoria. It is truly a closed-minded small town that isn’t interested in the outside world. A backward dump. The age skew (check any census) is very old. Getting there is a pain in ass (check any Air Canada timetable). The food is miserable. The people don’t want to accept new people or change. Don’t be fooled.

You don’t mentiònthe beauty of sailing in some of the most scenic and safe waters in the world.

If you are interested in living in Victoria or anywhere in British Columbia and want to own a home, make sure that you read up on the BC Speculation and Vacancy Tax, in particular the meaning of a satellite family under this tax rule. If you are retired and the majority of your income comes from outside Canada, you will be subject to a very high tax on your property; 2% of the assessed value every year.

Ola Williamson

Thanks, Amanda, for the valuable information.

Victoria is no longer the wonderful city that it used to be (as described here.) Today the downtown core is filled with vagrants and the streets are no longer safe to walk along. Random attacks on individuals are becoming an almost daily occurrence here. The cost of housing is through the roof, the cost of living continues to soar. We have a “virtue signalling” Municipal Council and, as a result, taxes are skyrocketing and municipal services, including policing, are constant underfunded. Stay away if you can, there are far better places to live (I lived here for 50+ years but moved to the outer reaches of Greater Victoria to get away from the mayhem in the City.

Thanks for this – just have to get out of Toronto. What are the outer reaches of the City?

@Steve, completely agree. Have lived in Victoria just seven years and have watched it deteriorate. Currently in search for somewhere to move with more freedom, better policies, taxes, cost of living, less of a housing crisis, safety, the list goes on and on.

It seems like your lying! It’s people like you that give this country a bad name

We (I Ravi and my Fiancee Ellie) are relocating to Victoria from Toronto. We always knew Victoria was a place for us after spending a year in Toronto. After reading this write-up we are excited to move to Victoria.

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